The Daiichi Life women's corporate team announced roster changes, with Paris Olympics runner Haruka Kokai and teammate Yuka Masubuchi leaving as of July 31. Kokai, born in 2003, was a gold medalist at the Asian Championships and placed 19th in Paris. Masubuchi, born in 2001, was a standout at Kinjo Gakuen H.S. and Meijo University. Edion also announced Kana Mizogami's departure, a middle-distance runner born in 2004.
Senko corporate team welcomed new members Chika Kosakai and Azusa Koga. Kosakai, 23, left Japan Post after competing in the Queens Ekiden. Koga, formerly Mihara, transferred from Route Inn Hotels, where she ran in the Queens Ekiden and National Cross Country Championships. Both athletes bring strong high school and university track records. Read more racing coverage.
The Hachioji Long Distance meet, traditionally held in November, has been postponed to March 6, 2027. Organizers cited difficulties in meeting conditions for the meet, aiming to make it a high-profile event for record attempts leading up to the 2027 Beijing World Championships. Related: Japan's U20 Team Excels at World Championships.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Japan Running News. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
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What should runners know about Daiichi Life Women's Team Sees Mid-Season Roster Changes?
Haruka Kokai and Yuka Masubuchi leave Daiichi Life, Kana Mizogami exits Edion The Daiichi Life women's corporate team announced roster changes, with Paris Olympics runner Haruka Kokai and teammate Yuka Masubuchi leaving as of July 31. Kokai, born in 2003, was a gold medalist at the Asian Championships and placed 19th in Paris. Masubuchi, born in 2001, was a standout at Kinjo Gakuen H.S. and Meijo University. Edion also announced Kana Mizogami's departure, a middle-distance runner born in 2004.
When did Runner World publish this racing brief?
Runner World published this brief on August 10, 2026. The underlying Japan Running News report was dated August 7, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Japan Running News. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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