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Hakone Ekiden Uphill Ace Kashiwabara Looking for 2:06, Olympics in New Pro Career

http://www.47news.jp/CN/201203/CN2012033001001929.html

translated and edited by Brett Larner

Having dominated the Hakone Ekiden's uphill Fifth Stage for his four years at Toyo University, men's long distance athlete Ryuji Kashiwabara, 22, made his debut in the uniform of his new corporate sponsor Fujitsu at a press conference in Minato Ward, Tokyo.  "I expect my career to last until I'm around 32 or 33," Kashiwabara told the media of his goals for the future.  "Within that time I want to go to the Olympics once.  My goal in the marathon is 2:06."

Beginning this season Kashiwabara will focus on the track to improve his speed, with a planned marathon debut his third year as a pro in 2014.  Having joined the Fujitsu team effective April 2, his first race in the new uniform will be at the April 21-22 Hyogo Relay Carnival.  Already one step ahead, he will be training in Miyazaki until April 28 as part of a corporate league-sponsored selective training camp.
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