The Tokyo Marathon is one of the world\u2019s most prestigious running events and a part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors series. For many runners, participating in this marathon is a dream come true. In 2027, thanks to an initiative by the Tokyo Marathon Foundation, a unique opportunity emerged to secure a guaranteed entry to this race by joining the RUN as ONE virtual challenge.<\/p>\n
How did the virtual challenge work?<\/strong><\/p>\n As part of the RUN as ONE \u2013 GLOBAL Virtual Run Series 2025\/2026, participants from around the world could take part in a virtual half marathon (21.0975 km) by registering through a dedicated app and syncing their results online. Completing the challenge gave runners a chance to enter a draw for one of 40 guaranteed, though paid, bib numbers for the Tokyo Marathon 2027.<\/p>\n Who could participate?<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 The challenge was open to everyone, with a preference for ONE TOKYO GLOBAL members, who could enter for free, while other participants had to pay a registration fee. Prizes and chances to run in Tokyo<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Out of all finishers, 40 people were drawn and received a guaranteed right to participate in the Tokyo Marathon 2027 (the entry was not free, but it secured a spot without additional qualifications).
\n\u2022 Participants needed to register within the set deadline, download the app, and run the required distance in one or several segments during the event period.<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 The RUN as ONE \u2013 GLOBAL Virtual Run Series 2025\/2026 includes a total of 10 challenges, spread across the months up to March 2026, each offering more chances to win a coveted Tokyo Marathon entry.<\/p>\n