THE MAGIC OF THE EKIDEN

The term 'ekiden' originates from two Japanese characters, 'eki' (駅), meaning station, and 'den' (伝), signifying conveyance. Essentially, it symbolizes the relay of information or movement from one station to another. This concept draws from historical modes of transportation, with the inaugural ekiden road relay taking place in Japan back in 1917.
 

The original ekiden involved a marathon distance of 42.195km, divided among six team members who each cover varying distances ranging from 5km to 10km. However, there exists a multitude of formats. In 2024 we invite teams (3 to 5 athletes per team) of trail runners to do the Crossing Switzerland 390 km as a team, where each member must do at least one of the stages. There will be at least one, but possibly 2 stages where the whole team runs together. More details in the Race section of the Ekiden.
 

The true essence of ekidens lies in the collaborative team dynamic. Participants collectively conquer the iconic Crossing Switzerland distance (or an equivalent stretch) alongside their teammates. The relay includes brisk, relatively short legs as well as segments tailored for ultra trail runners. What unites all participants is the 'tasuki' or sash, passed from one runner to the next, spanning the entire distance through the combined efforts of every team member.