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Comedian Hazama Completes Round-the-World Run

http://www.sanspo.com/geino/news/110122/gnj1101220508017-n1.htm

translated by Brett Larner



On Jan. 21 comedian Kanpei Hazama, 61, completed his round-the-world solo running and sailing "Earth Marathon," crossing the finish line onstage at Osaka's Nanba Grand Kagetsu auditorium. Greeted by his wife Mitsuyo, 53, and a large crowd of his fellow celebrities, Hazama, who was diagnosed with cancer partway through his run, wept openly before leading a group cheer of "Thank you!" The 41,000 km journey around the world took 766 days and passed through 18 countries including Japan.

Translator's note: Hazama's Youtube channel includes hundreds of videos documenting his trip.
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TokyoRacer said…
Actually, this was quite an incredible feat. He really did run the whole way (no walking, no driving). The only break he took was to have an operation for cancer, so I guess that was excusable. I saw a TV show about it when he returned to Japan (before running to Osaka) and he really made a lot of friends for Japan. He was in China during the China-Japan troubles, and they loved him! They loved him in Iraq (running in 40+C temperatures). I guess they loved him everywhere (he is a lovable guy).
January 22, 2011 at 7:46 PM
Samurai Running said…
You are lovable too Bob ;)

I went out to Osaka Castle park to see him finish the other night with the family. Thought it important that I show support for such an achievement. It's a great story and a lesson I thought my kids would benefit from.
January 23, 2011 at 1:22 PM
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