Jin Yuasa and Hitomi Niiya won the Hokkaido Marathon in Sapporo, securing spots for six runners in the Olympic trials. Yuasa finished in 2:10:46, followed by Ken Tansho and Masato Arao. Niiya won the women's race in 2:24:14, with Seira Fuwa and Kaena Takeyama following.

The top three men and three women all met the qualifying time standards for the trials. Arao, Tansho, and Yuasa all finished under 2:12:00, while Niiya, Fuwa, and Takeyama all finished under 2:32:00. The Hokkaido Marathon offers easier qualifying times compared to international races. Read more racing coverage.

The race also featured notable performances from debutants and experienced runners. Shoki Yamaguchi finished 4th in his debut, while Hibiki Yoshida faded to 9th. Madoka Nakano and Shiori Yoshizono also met the women's qualifying time, despite not placing in the top three. Related: Gobena sets new course record at Sydney Marathon.

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.