ASICS INDIA successfully hosted the first edition of the ASICS Ekiden India 2026 at DLF CyberHub, Gurugram recently bringing together running communities, corporate teams and fitness enthusiasts.
The iconic Japanese relay was organized in partnership with Sony India and supported by the Embassy of Japan in India. The event was attended by Mr. Yasuhito Hirota, Chairman and CEO, Representative Director, ASICS Corporation, Mr. ONO Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan to India, Mr. Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India and South Asia and ASICS Athlete Dr. Kartik Karkera, elite marathoner and winner of the recent Tata Mumbai Marathon and Cognizant New Delhi Marathon. With over 240 teams participating, the event brought together runners from India and Japan, reinforcing the Ekiden relay’s global legacy and cross-cultural significance, a media release said.
Supported by major Japanese conglomerates and partners including Mitsubishi Corporation, POCARI SWEAT, Pigeon, Fujifilm, Pilot and Yakult, ASICS hosted an immersive event celebrating the cultural connection between India and Japan through sport. Teams of four, each including at least one Japanese participant, took part in the relay by passing the traditional Tasuki, symbolizing shared purpose, continuity and teamwork.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India and South Asia, said, “Running has seen strong growth in India over the past few years, with increasing participation across races, running groups and fitness initiatives. Through the ASICS Ekiden India 2026, we brought the Japanese team relay format to the country, offering runners a new way to experience the sport through teamwork and shared goals. We are extremely encouraged by the enthusiasm and participation we witnessed at the event and look forward to bringing more such initiatives in the future.”
