japan running news

http://sp.kahoku.co.jp/tohokunews/201505/20150511_14013.html translated and edited by Brett Larner Just before the start of the May 10 Sendai International Half Marathon in central Sendai, the electronic pistol used to start the race experienced a malfunction, emitting sound 10 seconds before the official start time.  According to race officials, the malfunction occurred in the pistol's electrical system before guest starter Mayor Emiko Okuyama pulled the trigger.  Few runners starting running when the false signal occurred, and the race began as scheduled when officials gave the verbal command, "Start!"  Results from the race will still be officially certified. 

http://sportsnavi.yahoo.co.jp/other/athletic/headlines/20110726-00000035-kyodo_sp-spo.html translated by Brett Larner At a press conference in Sendai on July 26, organizers of the 22nd Sendai International Half Marathon announced that they will go ahead with plans to expand the event from 1000 elite and semi-elite runners to a mass-participation race with a field limit of 10000 at next year's race, scheduled for May 13.  According to city officials, Sendai will become the largest half marathon in Japan, with a new course that takes in the best of Sendai's downtown area. The new event will combine the elite Sendai International Half Marathon with the amateur-level Sendai City Marathon held in the fall and will include the full range of participants from those trying for a spot on the Japanese national team for the World Half Marathon Championships to recreational runners trying to break 2 hours 30 minutes.  The new race will also include a wheelchair race along with 2 km ...