THE CHALLENGE RACE OSAKA 6 - Osaka 2026

THE CHALLENGE RACE OSAKA 6 is a timed, Japan Association of Athletics Federations-accredited road race on the Yodogawa riverbank in Osaka. The sixth Osaka edition of RDC's THE CHALLENGE RACE series is designed for runners targeting personal bests and qualifying times, rather than sightseeing. The event also forms part of the R.LEAGUE performance programme and is associated with TEAM ONE TOKYO.

Course and distances

The organiser describes the riverside course as extremely flat, with less than 1.5 metres of height variation. The main route uses a 10 km out-and-back circuit. Marathon runners complete four circuits plus a final section, 30 km runners complete three, while the half marathon, 10 km and 5 km use shorter turnarounds. A separate one-mile race, about 1.6 km, is available. All six distances belong to the same meeting.

Twelve pace groups support marathon-equivalent targets between 2 hours 30 minutes and 4 hours 20 minutes. Pacers cover at least 25 km. The organiser provides three aid points per 10 km lap, with drinks and energy gels, and allows runners to warm up until shortly before the start.

Timetable and rules

On Sunday 13 December 2026, race-day registration runs from 08:00 to 09:00 JST, followed by an opening ceremony from 09:10 to 09:20. The marathon, 30 km, half marathon, 10 km and 5 km begin at 09:30; the mile starts at 09:35. Racing concludes by approximately 14:00.

Published limits are 4 hours 30 minutes for the marathon, 3 hours 12 minutes for 30 km, 90 minutes for 10 km, 40 minutes for 5 km and 12 minutes for the mile. The registration page gives inconsistent half-marathon limits in its detail and regulations sections; confirm the applicable cut-off with the organiser.

Entry and runner facilities

Entry is online through the event-specific registration platform, subject to capacity, with no normal race-day entry. Bibs and timing chips are collected on race morning and are not posted in advance. Runners must return the chips after finishing. Results certificates are downloadable online, and the organiser advertises free participant photos subject to account registration. Changing tents and riverside toilets are available.

There is no staffed baggage or valuables service. A self-service bag area is available near registration, with belongings left at the runner's risk. Check the final race instructions on the organiser's website, generally issued two days before the race.

Travel to the start

The meeting point is beside Baseball Field No. 3 in Yodogawa Riverside Park's Nishinakajima area. It is about five minutes' walk from Nishinakajima-Minamigata Station on the Midosuji Line and fifteen minutes from Shin-Osaka Station. Park parking is limited, so rail is a sensible option. Bring warm layers for a December morning beside the river.