Tokyo’s street pulsed with energy on 4 May 2025, as the ASICS Tokyo: Speed: Race unleashed a high-performance showcase of endurance, speed, and innovation. Hosted beside the iconic Japan National Stadium, the event saw 125 elite athletes and over 2,700 amateurs chasing speed records across multiple race formats. Fueled by ASICS’ latest METASPEED™ Tokyo Series, this one-of-a-kind event led to a staggering 61 new records including 3 Area Records, 10 National Records, and 48 Personal Bests.
From breakout performance in the 5K and 10K to inspirational first-timers, the event wasn’t just a race, it was a celebration of what humans can achieve when confidence meets the right gear.
Global Records, Local Pride: A Celebration of Speed and Heritage
One of the standout moments of the day came from Nadia Battocletti of Italy, who set both a European and Italian National Record in the 5K with a time of 14:32. Meanwhile, Caroline Nyaga of Kenya took first place in the women’s 5K with an astonishing 14:19, setting a new personal best.
The 10K races were equally thrilling. Isobel Batt-Doyle from Australia clocked 30:44, breaking both her national and area records, while Abbabiya Simbassa of the U.S set a new American Record with 27:32. Joy Cheptoyek (Uganda) and Jemal Yimer (Ethiopia) led their respective 10K categories with times of 30:22 and 27:10, showcasing world-class speed and stamina.
This incredible display of global athleticism reflects the event’s alignment with the upcoming World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25, boosting excitement ahead of one of the world’s most anticipated sporting events.
Malaysia on the Map: National Stars Inspire Future Generations
Among the elite participants, Malaysia proudly featured two inspiring runners:
- Vimal Govendarajoo, a top national runner from Matang, Taiping, clocked 32:40 in the Elite Men’s 10K.
- Allison Yee, ASICS Malaysia Brand Ambassador, made her 5K debut with an impressive 20:09, securing third place in the General Category.
Their dedication and results reflect Malaysia’s growing presence in the international running scene, motivating young athletes across the nation.
Powered by Innovation: The New METASPEDD™ Tokyo Series
All elite runners who shattered personal records were wearing ASICS’ cutting-edge METASPEED™ Tokyo Series, which includes:
- METASPEED™ RAY
- METASPEED™ SKY TOKYO
- METASPEED™ EDGE TOKYO
Engineered with ASICS’ human-centric design philosophy, these shoes were developed through rigorous research at the ASICS Institute of Sport Science. The process involved feedback from over 100 elite athletes and multiple independent teaters, ensuring that each model supports distinct running styles and maximizes performance.
Since the debut of METASPEED™ in 2021, ASICS has continued to refine their technology to meet the ever-evolving needs of competitive runners, pushing boundaries of speed and comfort.
More Than Just a Race: A Festival of Movement
The Tokyo: Speed: Race wasn’t just for elites. The event welcomed 2,750 amateur runners in categories like the General 5K, Half Marathon Relay, and even a 1K Family Run. Other attractions included a children’s challenge and a Deaflympics-led experience, showing how running can unite communities and break barriers.
Held on a fast, flat course in front of the Meiji Memorial Museum, this urban track offered stunning views and optimal racing conditions. The one-kilometer loop layout also allowed spectators to cheer their favourite runners up close throughout the race.
“Feel Speed, Find Confidence” – And Join the Movement
With elite athletes proving the power of performance shoes and passionate amateurs setting personal milestones, ASICS Tokyo: Speed: Race 2025 truly embodied the spirit of “Feel Speed, Find Confidence.”
As Olivier Mignon, ASICS’ Director of Sports Marketing, shared:
“This race was a true celebration of what speed can unlock, not just in performance, but in confidence. From elite records to personal breakthroughs, the event embodied the spirit of athletic excellence.”
Looking to take your running to the next level?
- Explore the METASPEED™ Tokyo Series on ASICS.COM
- Join the OneASICS membership for exclusive insights: OneASICS Malaysia
- Follow ASICS Malaysia on Instagram and Facebook.
Race Winners Recap:
Men’s 10K
- Jemal Yimer (ETHN) – 27:10
- Victor Kipruto (KEN) – 27:11
- Vincent Kibet Langat (KEN) – 27:11
Women’s 10K
- Joy Cheptoyek (UGA) – 30:22
- Samiyah Hassan Nour (DJI) – 30:40
- Isobel Batt-Doyle (AUS) – 30:44
Men’s 5K
- Harbert Kibet (Uga) – 13:00
- Ismail Mohamed (DJI) – 13:10
- Samwel Nyamai Mailu (KEN) – 13:11
Women’s 5K
- Caroline Nyaga (KEN) – 14:19
- Nadia Battocletti (ITA) – 14:32
- Maurine Jepkoech (KEN) – 14:40
Ready to race your own best time? The road to greatness starts with a single step. Explore ASICS innovations and join a community powered by purpose and performance.
