[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! (41–50)
Before DawnUchida Yūma
Yuma Uchida is an artist active as a voice actor and singer.
He has an impressive track record, having won the Best New Actor and Best Leading Actor awards at the annual Seiyu Awards.
“Before Dawn” is a rock number that features a refreshing, exhilarating chorus that truly highlights Uchida’s signature style.
The lyrics carry a positive message about turning loneliness and timidity into courage.
Everyone gets nervous before a relay race, right? At times like that, try listening to this song before you run—it might ease your nerves a bit and help you achieve better results!
[Sports Day] A roundup of exhilarating, fast-paced tracks perfect for relay race BGM! (51–60)
life-formHoshino Gen
Singer-songwriter Gen Hoshino, who also showcases his talents as an actor, essayist, and columnist.
His eighth digital-only single, “Seimeitai,” written as the theme song for TBS’s World Athletics and the Asian Games, features lyrics that powerfully push you forward and give you courage.
Its pop melody and energetic beat make it perfect for exhilarating moments like sports or driving.
With its striking choral work that makes you want to sing along, it’s a number whose exhilarating sense of speed feels great.
Start to shine and run forwardSambomasutā
An exhilarating up-tempo track with a driving melody and Sambomaster’s passionate message that lifts your spirits.
Released as a single in August 2018, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama Cheer☆Dan.
It’s an absolutely high-energy cheer anthem that’s almost too perfect for school sports days.
It pairs especially well with all-out sprinting events.
Play this energy-packed song, and it’s sure to make the sprints and even the exit scenes even more exciting.
Tritsch-Tratsch-PolkaJohann Strauss II
This is a work by the composer Johann Strauss II from the Austrian Empire.
He was the eldest son of his father, Johann Strauss I.
The title “Tritsch-Tratsch” is said to mean “women’s chatter/gossip” in German.
Regardless of the meaning, in Japan it is often used as background music for relay races due to its lively, brisk tempo.
Happinessarashi
This song is one of Arashi’s popular tracks and a staple at their live shows.
I remember it being performed at the opening concert of the New National Stadium as well.
The lyrics are about getting running and moving forward, so I think it fits a relay.
A relay isn’t just a competition; it also involves teamwork, and the song’s bright tone matches that.
Even though it was released in 2007, it’s still widely known and really gets the crowd going.
This song was the theme song for Yamada Taro Monogatari.
migratory bird[Alexandros]
![migratory bird[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/O_DLtVuiqhI/sddefault.jpg)
When it comes to songs that amp up the excitement of intense events like relays, ball-toss games, and tug-of-war, “Wataridori” is a top pick.
Released in 2015 by the band [Alexandros], known for their distinctive rock sound, it’s beloved as a staple track for school sports days and athletic festivals.
The lyrics, themed around a bird that flies endlessly, resonate with students taking on various events and can instantly energize the entire venue.
It’s a rock number with a light yet passionate sound that makes you want to start running.
ultramarineYOASOBI
A track defined by an exhilarating, fast-paced melody! It’s a pop tune that signals a new frontier for YOASOBI.
True to their style of crafting songs based on novels and stories, it carries a profound message while delivering an uplifting, refreshing sound that makes listeners’ hearts soar.
Released in January 2021, the song stayed on the charts for an impressive 182 weeks, capturing the hearts of many.
With lyrics about “finding your true self and having the courage to chase your dreams,” it’s perfect for a school relay race—sure to give kids hope and energy.
Listen to it before running to get everyone pumped up together!