[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.
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[Sports Day] A roundup of exhilarating, fast-paced tracks perfect for relay race BGM! (91–100)
Kono Yubi Tomareyosugala
In this new work by yosugala, a single ray of light and a warm, empathetic singing voice strike straight to the heart.
It’s a song that conveys, with unwavering sincerity, the desire to believe in someone’s inner radiance and to support them.
Crafted as an anthem that stands beside those feeling setbacks or loneliness and gently nudges them forward, it was first performed at LINE CUBE SHIBUYA in February 2025 and released the following March, with lyrics and composition by members of the band AliA.
It will surely resonate deeply with people giving their all on their own and with students running toward their dreams.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to with your friends when you’re worn out from sports day practice, feeling nervous before the main event, or in need of a lift.
One Heartatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu
A cheer song bursting with positive energy and youthful power! Filmed in a gymnasium together with fans known as “Seishun Club Members,” it’s a warm, light-filled visual piece.
ATARASHII GAKKO! has consistently delivered strong messages about valuing individuality through works like the albums “Ma-Ningen” and “Wakage Gaitaru.” This track was produced in March 2025 as a song for a Bourbon commercial, and it’s a powerful push for those starting a new chapter in life.
It’s sure to encourage you through tense entrance ceremonies, important sports day practice, and the big day itself.
The authentic message and dynamic performance of ATARASHII GAKKO! will surely resonate with your heart!
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.
A view I’ve never seen beforeSuda Masaki
This is Masaki Suda’s debut track, packed with passion through its driving rock sound and powerful vocals.
Released in June 2017, the song earnestly portrays people who keep moving forward even while covered in mud.
Its message, full of determination and passion toward the future, was featured in au’s “au BLUE CHALLENGE” series and resonated with many listeners.
The track is included on the album “PLAY” and garnered high acclaim, reaching No.
3 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.
It’s also perfect as entrance music for athletes at school sports days, gently yet powerfully pushing forward everyone who is striving to face ahead.
Zankyo SankaAimer
A fast-paced, powerful song is essential for sprint events, isn’t it? Aimer, known for her beautiful yet fleeting husky voice, released “Zankyo Sanka” in 2022—an upbeat tune perfect for school sports days.
Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc, it features an impressive, dynamic brass band sound.
The energy builds from the first verse through the chorus, making it ideal for high-intensity races! Try playing this anime song that both parents and kids can enjoy.
The Star-Spangled Banner ForeverJohn Philip Sousa
The Stars and Stripes Forever is a march composed in 1898 by John Philip Sousa, former director of the United States Marine Band.
It is one of Sousa’s most famous pieces.
From the very beginning, the powerful playing of various instruments sets the tone, making it a great choice when you want to evoke pride and boost morale.
In the middle section, there’s a passage where strings and flutes produce a gentle timbre, so I recommend using it as an entrance march before a relay rather than during the relay itself.
earnest desireSUPER BEAVER
A gem of a rock number that strikingly portrays the importance of human connection and smiles arrives from SUPER BEAVER.
One person’s happiness is built through the involvement of many, and smiles spread to those around us.
This song sings about such simple, subtle feelings in straightforward words.
Its lyrics, which encourage looking warmly upon others and embracing a generous heart, resonate strongly with the emotions of youth.
Included on the February 2024 album “Ongaku” (Music), the release also features several buzzworthy tracks such as “Gradation,” the theme song for Tokyo Revengers 2.
It’s a perfect choice for school events or sports festivals, ideal for young people who want to reaffirm their bonds with friends.