Tokai University Head Coach Morozumi Calls for Hakone Ekiden Finish Line to Move to Tokyo Dome

In comments on Jan. 22, Tokai University head coach Hayashi Morozumi, 51, revealed that he considering making a proposal for the finish line of the Hakone Ekiden to be moved from its current location in front of the main offices of sponsor Yomiuri Newspaper Group in Otemachi Ward to Tokyo Dome in Bunkyo Ward. "Having the finish at Tokyo Dome would allow more people to watch the race and welcome each school's runner home, increasing the excitement level," explained Morozumi. "With the number of fans packed into the current finish area there are too many issues with traffic and other problems."

Given that it is around 2 km from the Yomiuri Newspaper Group's head offices to Tokyo Dome, under "The Morozumi Proposal" it would be necessary to increase the distance of the anchor stage. Additionally, because the level of Tokyo Dome's fiberglass roof is adjusted in response to changes in air pressure there are times when entrance and exit doors cannot be opened, creating potential technical problems surrounding athletes' use of its facilities. "I would like to hear a variety of opinions on this idea," said Morozumi.

Four-time Hakone champion Aoyama Gakuin University's head coach Susumu Hara, 50, commented, "I think it's very interesting. It's certainly worth everyone involved discussing together."

source article: http://www.hochi.co.jp/sports/etc/20180122-OHT1T50322.html
translated by Brett Larner