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Wonderful sports day / athletic festival

[Sports Day] A roundup of exhilarating, fast-paced tracks perfect for relay race BGM!

Speaking of relays, they’re the event that gets the crowd most excited at a sports day! The music that adds flair to the race is also one of the key elements.

I’m sure you, too, have a song that comes to mind as relay BGM.

In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of tracks—from classic relay staples everyone’s heard to J-pop numbers perfect for a heated competition.

They’re all songs that will make you want to start running, so use them as a guide when choosing your playlist.

[Sports Day] A roundup of exhilarating, fast-paced tracks perfect as relay race BGM! (81–90)

Bon Festival RoundAkihiko Takashima

Theme played at the punchline of The Drifters
Bon Festival Round Takashima Akihiko

This is the theme song that was used every time from the punchline of a Drifters sketch into the transition.

The period-drama-style sound actually feels refreshingly new.

It’s the kind of number that makes you flustered even if you don’t know the Drifters—before you know it, you’re in a rush.

It even feels like you could run faster than usual!

BOYKing Gnu

One of the highlights of any sports day—the relay—is brought to life by “BOY.” Released in 2021 by the mixed-genre band King Gnu, the track was used as the opening theme for the anime Ranking of Kings.

Among their songs, it has a particularly pop feel, with a light sound reminiscent of soul and funk.

Its lyrics, which cheer on those who are giving their all, make it perfect for supporting relay runners.

Try playing this exhilarating, fast-paced pop song as BGM for your relay!

A bouquet for meAdo

[Ado] Bouquet for Me Official Audio
A bouquet for meAdo

A gently sung piece about self-affirmation and a forward-looking attitude was released by Ado in March 2025.

While empathizing with the feelings we experience in everyday life, it carries a message that encourages recognizing oneself and finding the courage to take a step toward tomorrow.

With a fresh melody crafted by HoneyWorks layered with Ado’s powerful yet delicate vocals, the result is a heartwarming track.

The song has been chosen as the new commercial theme for Coca-Cola’s canned coffee brand Georgia and is scheduled to be included on the album “Ado’s Best Album.” It’s a perfect tune to start your morning, to encourage someone, or to give yourself a boost of courage—and it will continue to brighten the hearts of many.

RunLittle Glee Monster

『Run』 – Little Glee Monster
RunLittle Glee Monster

An encouraging song for first graders, created in collaboration with Meiji Probio Yogurt R-1, was finally released by Little Glee Monster in March 2025.

Featured on the album “Ambitious,” this upbeat pop track celebrates the importance of continuing to chase your dreams and goals.

Its up-tempo melody and powerful vocals blend in perfect balance, resonating deeply with listeners.

In particular, the super-groovy, dynamic sound and the fiery message of pushing forward into the future with everything you’ve got make it irresistibly energizing.

It’s the perfect song to listen to when taking a first step into a new environment or when you hit a wall.

Highly recommended as a motivational anthem for moments when you want to give it your all—like practice for sports days and athletic festivals, or even club activities.

PERFECT HUMANRADIO FISH

【LIVE】PERFECT HUMAN / RADIO FISH
PERFECT HUMANRADIO FISH

Liven up your sports day or field day with highly addictive electronic music! This hit by RADIO FISH, the performance group led by the comedy duo Oriental Radio, was released in 2015 as their sixth single.

While the lyrics are full of humor, the sound is cool and impressively polished.

The rhythm and tempo are perfect as BGM for running events like the 100-meter dash or relays.

OrangeSPYAIR

SPYAIR “Orange” Music Video (Theme Song for Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle: The Movie)
OrangeSPYAIR

This is a song where a fresh, energetic melody coexists with a touch of poignancy.

While depicting stories of sports, youth, and friendship, it carries messages about “cherishing the present” and “continuing to move toward the future.” Despite its powerful sound, the track also conveys a certain fragility.

Released in February 2024, it was created by SPYAIR as the theme song for the film Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle.

It was also released as an EP, which includes re-recorded versions—featuring the new vocalist—of past theme songs from the Haikyu!! series.

This piece is perfect as entrance music for athletes at school sports days or festivals.

It fires up the competitors’ fighting spirit and lifts the crowd’s excitement, ensuring everyone comes together in a unified surge of energy.

[Sports Day] A roundup of exhilarating, fast-paced tracks perfect for relay race BGM! (91–100)

Live in the present.Saucy Dog

Saucy Dog “Live in the present.” Music Video
Live in the present.Saucy Dog

Powerfully singing of youthful passion and hope, this Saucy Dog track was created as a cheer anthem for the 101st All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

Portraying growth through overcoming setbacks and hardship, bonds with teammates, and the courage to move forward while staying true to oneself, the song deeply resonates with young people navigating high school life during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Released in December 2022, it has become an indispensable fan favorite at their live shows, giving a strong push not only to soccer players but also to students working hard every day for their clubs and school events.