Reiko Tosa Appears in Japan Day Fun Run in NYC

http://www.jiji.com/jc/c?g=spo_30&k=2008060100250

translated by Brett Larner

Running on the first day of summer weather, Beijing Olympics women`s marathon team member Reiko Tosa (Team Mitsui Sumitomo Kaijo) joined the field of 3000 in New York`s Central Park for the Japan Day fun run event. Covering a single loop of 4 miles (6.4 km) inside the park, the race featured Tosa as a guest pacer for the top female runner.

Speaking to reporters afterward, Tosa commented, "It felt fantastic." Asked about her preparations for the Beijing Olympics, Tosa added, "I want to be on the starting line smiling and all in one piece. I will be hanging on to medal contention all the way to the end."

This year`s Japan Day was only the second time the event has been held. The celebrations include taiko drum performances, karate demonstrations and Japanese food such as udon.

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