THE CHALLENGE RACE NAGOYA 1 - Nagoya 2027

THE CHALLENGE RACE NAGOYA 1 takes place on Sunday 17 January 2027 in Shonai Ryokuchi Park in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. This edition of Japan's performance-oriented THE CHALLENGE RACE series uses a measured, Japanese Athletics Federation-certified loop designed for runners looking for a fast, officially recognised result.

Course and pacing

The main racecourse circles the park in approximately 2.5 km laps, with elevation changes of no more than 1.5 metres. The half marathon and marathon include additional stadium-track sections to complete their full distances. Eleven pacing groups are planned, covering target marathon times from 2 hours 40 minutes to 4 hours 20 minutes. Pacers are scheduled to run at least 25 km. Sports drinks are offered along the course and energy gels become available during the race.

Sunday programme

Race bib and timing chip collection is at Shonai Ryokuchi Athletic Stadium from 08:00 to 09:00. An opening ceremony runs from 09:10 to 09:20. The marathon, 30K, half marathon, 10K and 5K start together at 09:30, with the separate one-mile event starting at 09:33. The organiser expects to finish proceedings by 14:00. The one-mile race is genuine but cannot be represented by a dedicated ARC distance option.

Participation guidance

The marathon's published time limit is 4 hours 30 minutes, with 3 hours 12 minutes for the 30K and 2 hours 30 minutes for the half marathon. Organiser material currently differs on the 10K and 5K limits, so consult the final athlete briefing for those restrictions. No race bibs are posted ahead of race day: entrants must check in at the stadium and show their registration details. The park can be reached from Shonai Ryokuchi Koen Station on Nagoya's Tsurumai subway line, Exit 2. On-site parking is paid and may be busy. Online timing certificates and participant photographs are available through the organiser's website with the required free account.