Route Inn Hotels claimed its first-ever Princess Ekiden victory, securing a spot in the Queens Ekiden. Mayuka Fujita led the team, with Kotone Hoshina anchoring to finish in 2:18:48. Fujita's performance highlighted the team's development.
Despite fatigue from international marathons, teams like Daihatsu and Tokyo Metro competed. Daihatsu finished second, while Tokyo Metro, despite a drop, managed to qualify. Kraftia, without Yuka Akasaki, finished 18th. Read more racing coverage.
Individual standouts included Nanaka Miyahara of Toto, who nearly matched Miu Saito's anchor stage record, propelling Toto to 7th. The top 16 teams will join the national champion and others in the Queens Ekiden. Related: Toyo University Wins Hakone Ekiden Qualifier After 21 Years.
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 Route Inn Hotels Secures First-Ever Princess Ekiden Win?
Route Inn Hotels wins the Princess Ekiden, qualifying for the Queens Ekiden. Route Inn Hotels claimed its first-ever Princess Ekiden victory, securing a spot in the Queens Ekiden. Mayuka Fujita led the team, with Kotone Hoshina anchoring to finish in 2:18:48. Fujita's performance highlighted the team's development.
When did Runner World publish this racing brief?
Runner World published this brief on October 18, 2026. The underlying Japan Running News report was dated October 18, 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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