That distance gives power to time.
That distance determines the value of the person.
That distance is what I devoted my life to.
That distance is… 100 meters.
Set.
TOGASHI
Togashi, you can totally take on the world!
No way.
Running with us can't be fun for you.
I've never had fun running with anyone anyway.
-The fastest grade schooler in Japan! -Hey!
You should be more proud, Togashi.
Should I?
Are you okay?
I'm… ok--
You sound like you're about to die.
I'm okay…
No, you're running out of breath.
This is… normal for me.
Normal?
-Thank you. -Sure.
Quiet, class.
He's the new transfer I mentioned yesterday.
From yesterday…
Yesterday?
This is Komiya, your new classmate.
Let's give him a warm welcome.
Go on, introduce yourself.
N-Nice to meet you, I'm Komiya.
I can't hear you!
Hello! Say it again, please!
C'mon guys, what did I just say?
But I can't welcome him without knowing his name.
That's enough, Genta.
The interior angles in a triangle add up to 180°.
Not 360°, don't make that common mistake.
The parallelogram is tricky, so listen carefully.
Okay, next.
Oh man, what if I lose?
Get set.
Incredible.
Komiya!
Hey, Komiya!
Komiya!
Togashi…
Hm? Where am I?
Near my house.
I'll walk you to the riverbank.
So, do you like running?
No, it's tough.
Then why do you run?
Cause it gets blurred.
What gets blurred?
Reality.
Doing something more painful than reality comforts me.
Bye then.
Okay, but…
you're misusing running for such a dumb reason.
"Misusing"?
Well, uh, how can I put it?
I've got nothing, you see.
Huh?
I don't know how to get on with people.
And I don't know how to solve problems either, so I just run away when I can.
Even if it's a temporary fix.
So the reason is worthwhile for me.
I know that just running doesn't solve my problems.
But you're wrong, Komiya.
What?
Of course, just running doesn't solve anything,
but I know one thing.
What?
There's one very simple rule in this world.
Running the 100m faster than anyone else can solve almost anything.
"Almost anything"? How can you be so sure about that?
Well, I can. 'Cause it works for me.
So, um…
Is it too late…
Is it too late for me to train myself to run faster?
You make that decision yourself.
That decision… is my own.
-Bye! -Bye, sir.
Togashi.
Let's go game at Kawano's.
Oh sorry, I can't. I gotta go somewhere today.
See you.
Heck. He's no fun.
Swing your arms more!
Imagine kicking the ground hard!
Higher.
Togashi, wanna come game at my place today?
Uh, sorry, I've got plans.
What, today too?
See you tomorrow.
What's up with him these days?
You're improving, but running every day must be hard.
I'm fine. The more I run, the lighter my feet feel. I'm enjoying it.
Sports Day is getting closer, so have a day off.
There's no time to rest.
Besides, I want to learn more from you.
Resting is a part of training.
Also, you should get new shoes.
Oh, that…
Lucky that I had art class today.
Wrap this around and…
H-Hey, Komiya! That's a bit…
All done. Should be fine.
Not really. It looks hideous.
I can wear it alright, though.
Just barely, right?
Oh, your parents won't buy you new ones?
No, they want me to get a new pair, actually.
But I've been practicing with them, so I wanna race in them.
Hey, if I win the 100m, I'll get a gold medal, right?
Huh? Yeah, a medal from the 100 yen shop.
I want that medal. I'd love to win a race just once.
I'd love to win.
You've got this!
The boys' 100m will start shortly.
He's super fast.
So that's Togashi, right?
Finished runners, come this way!
What's the point in racing Togashi?
Well, it's Sports Day.
Where's Togashi?
Hey, new boy.
You get any better at running?
Heh, you're gonna run in those?
Suit yourself.
Hey, Togashi! Over here!
On your marks…
Get set…
Go get 'em, Komiya! Believe in your speed!
Yes!
Next, the 100m awards ceremony.
Congratulations.
Yesterday at the Japan Junior High School Championships,
Takeru Nigami, a son of a former national team member, won the boys' 100m.
This outstanding achievement
by the second-year student is taking the sporting world by storm…
Excuse me.
Hey, Togashi.
Thanks for popping in.
It's fine.
Take a look at this.
Track and Field Monthly?
That's amazing, Togashi.
Yep, Mr. Tani asked me earlier. It's for a magazine.
An interview alongside Mr. Nigami sounds great!
His school's near us, right?
Yeah.
Do you think you're faster than him?
Mr. Nigami's faster for sure.
I'm not so sure.
Why don't you race 100m for real instead of talking with him?
No way that's happening.
You think so?
-Nigami was on TV the other day! -Cool!
He was super fast!
Togashi'll race against Nigami?
Mister Nigami, he's our senior.
Mr. Nigami has arrived.
Sorry for the delay.
Oh, no need to get up.
Nice to meet you, Togashi. I'm Nigami.
Wow, it's really Nigami!
Again, Mister Nigami to you.
Okay, shall we get started?
I'm ready, ma'am.
Me too, ma'am.
Would you like to start, Togashi?
Sure.
Let me see…
For what reason do you run, Mr. Nigami?
To win first place, of course.
How about you?
Was it fun when you first realized you were naturally fast?
It was.
But once you take first, you can't go back to just having fun.
And you kind of know that by now.
Once you've committed your life to that distance, keep on running.
You're controlled by race results.
Because "running" is simple,
if you want to belong and stay in the game,
you must be absolute at all times.
Togashi is doing well. What do you think of him?
His cadence, balance, rhythm, and weight shift…
Is he really a grade schooler?
Fifty times.
Togashi, you've got 50 times more potential than you think.
Oh my, 50 times?
Oh? Thank you.
Hey, they're about to start.
The photographer will be at the 40m mark, so just go easy after that.
-Understood. -Understood.
Whenever you're ready.
On your marks…
Get set…
Did Togashi win?
I think Mr. Nigami stopped running after the photo.
Good run, Nigami.
Thank you.
We got some great shots!
You looked as if you were racing for real. You made my heart race!
This'll be a great article thanks to you.
I think you'd have won the race
if Mr. Nigami didn't stop halfway.
I doubt it. He did what he was told to do.
Maybe he stopped 'cause he was losing?
Fat chance.
I thought both of you were giving your all.
At least you were, Togashi.
That's because I can't ease off.
Whenever I run, I can't not give my all.
And I think meeting with Mr. Nigami today made me realize the reason.
I think you can even beat Zaitsu's national record one day.
Now, that's asking a bit much.
Togashi.
Can I ask you a favor?
What is it?
Can I race 100m against you?
What, now?
Yes. A real race.
The 100m mark is under that tree, alright?
Yeah.
We start when we hear the sound of a train passing the rail joint above.
The first one, okay?
A-Are you alright, Komiya?
So, Togashi, you eased off?
No, I told you I couldn't. I went all out.
Thanks a lot.
Well, goodbye, Togashi.
Yeah, see you tomorrow.
I have to start by telling you something a little sad.
Komiya suddenly had to move away yesterday
due to family circumstances.
He was just about settling in, so it's a shame.
How about you guys write him a letter soon?
A mighty win by Togashi!
Going all out from the first heat is still his trademark.
MITO SHINKIN BANK STADIUM
In lane three, Sakaguchi, from Minami Daisan Junior High.
The 100m final at the Japan Junior High Championships.
All eyes are on Togashi, the reigning champion.
Since winning the championships two years ago as a first-year student,
he's won every meet he entered so far.
Togashi reminds me of the junior high days of Zaitsu,
the current national record holder.
I agree. Just how high Togashi will rise is of growing interest
among track and field professionals.
The boys' 100m final is about to commence.
Set.
The field isn't just for baseball!
-Isn't that Togashi? -Where?
Hmm, I'm not sure. Hey, Aoi!
Togashi! Right? I knew it was you.
Yes.
Did you decide on a club? Are you not joining one?
Maybe you're training somewhere else?
Oh sorry, I didn't mean to surprise you. So you really came to this school, huh?
But why? You could get into an elite athlete school.
It's close to home.
-That's the reason? -Yes.
Sorry, too many questions.
It's okay, bye.
Can you do me a favor?
Sorry, no.
I haven't said…
I've got a funny feeling.
It's nothing weird.
-Will you join track… -Bingo, bye.
W-Wait. My name is Aoi Asakusa.
I'm Togashi.
I know. Why won't you join the Track and Field Club?
We currently only have three members.
Nobody's interested in track and field.
Excuse me.
Aoi!
The Japan Junior High Championships, Boys' 100m Final
Morning.
Who's that?
It's Togashi.
Why's he sneaking about?
It's hard being famous, y'know?
Excuse me, have the limited-run buns sold out?
They have, but…
Here, the last one.
Are you sure? Thank you so much!
Well, it's you, Togashi. The 100m ace, right?
Yes.
I kept one for you.
Oh, Asakusa.
You remembered my name? Thanks!
Lucky you, I love those buns too!
You can have it.
It's alright, you have it.
But would you do me a favor instead?
What kind of favor?
-You wanna see me run? -Yes.
But what for?
To run faster.
Not as fast as you, of course, but I wanna be better.
And I know this isn't a fair trade, but…
If I do, will you leave me alone?
I will. I promise.
From a standing…
From a crouching start, please.
Fine.
Here I go.
Okay, go ahead.
What the hell just happened?
Incredible.
You sure are unbelievable.
How rude of me to think I could learn from a superhuman.
But thank you for that.
No worries.
I'm glad. I thought you were unwell or something.
I heard a rumor.
I'm not talented, and I don't know what makes me think this way…
But I truly think that track and field
is such a wonderful sport.
You're different from us. I bet you can do anything you like.
So you can enjoy track and field too, as it's a wonderful sport.
Hey, don't get me wrong. I'm not recruiting.
NOTICE: TRACK AND FIELD CLUB IS CLOSING
Huh?
I never expected to have zero new members.
Track and field is out of fashion.
Excuse me.
Togashi.
Hello there.
We were told a while ago, but we ignored it and carried on.
But why?
You need at least five members to keep the club running.
Five members…
So, me joining alone isn't enough.
What did you just say, Togashi?
Give me a minute.
He just said, "me joining," didn't he?
Yep, he did.
Are you serious?
Yes.
But I heard you had health issues.
Oh, that's just a rumor. Besides, I started it myself.
-What? -Oh, it's nothing.
Well… the problem is you must have at least five members.
But sir, it's me who signed up, even if that sounds presumptuous.
Would you consider making an exception?
Yeah, I hear you.
Still, there are formalities we've got to respect.
What should I do then?
Fine, I'll delay the closure, and the club must get results.
Then your demand'll be justified.
I understand.
Get out!
When will the next meet be?
There's an event among our neighboring schools.
Then that has to be it.
-But… -Yes?
There's a mixed 4x200m relay.
We can ditch the relay, right?
But that relay is the main race in that competition.
So, there's this unspoken rule that winning that event trumps all else.
Yeah, I participated in the relay when I was a first-year. It sure was wild.
I see… Winning that relay would be a huge advantage for us.
So we need another guy.
Hey, didn't you say you had three members?
Does that person ever show up?
Well, he'd be an ideal candidate, but…
-Right? -Yeah.
Just a second, Togashi.
Yes?
It'd be my pleasure to welcome you to the club,
but…
You've figured it out, right? I was thinking about quitting running.
I mean, I've been stuck for some time.
I didn't improve much during my junior high years.
I was scared to run, but also was scared to quit.
Until yesterday when you asked me to run.
Sprinting all out like that again… reminded me of something.
That I'm damn fast.
So I decided to give running another go.
I'm the one who should be grateful. Thank you.
No, no, please. I just wanted to watch you run, that's all.
Would you let me join the club?
Of course. Welcome to the Track and Field Club, Togashi.
He'd be perfect if he's up for it.
He's that good, huh?
He rarely comes to the club though.
Don't get your hopes up, but let's go visit him tomorrow.
Why not now?
It's on the top of this hill.
Okay.
Yes?
Hello, it's Asakusa.
What do you want?
A little chat?
What the… Mr. Nigami?
Not a chance.
I knew you'd say that.
Why are you at a school that's not a track powerhouse anyway?
I could ask you the same question.
Oh, well, that's…
I worked way too hard and did my back in.
I couldn't keep doing track, so I moved back here.
Then why are you a member of the club here?
Only on paper, 'cause I had to choose one.
Asakusa was pestering me, so I lent her my name.
Is your back still bad? Are you able to run?
Who knows?
Why not try again?
Not interested.
Are you sure about that?
Listen, in this world,
there are some idiots who let the 100m ruin their whole life.
So, um…
Have you got time to spare?
How long?
Ten seconds.
Ninety eight, ninety nine, one hundred.
It's right here!
Okay.
I haven't run for half a year.
You give the signal, Asakusa.
Okay.
Do I have a say?
You don't know how fast you are, do you?
Fifty times.
Fifty times more than I think.
Yes, so the result is already clear.
Are you two ready?
-Yeah. -I'm ready.
Alright.
On your marks.
Set.
No way.
Time?
12.13 seconds.
Twelve?
The event's only three weeks away.
We should decide the running order now to improve training efficiency.
-The first runner, Asakusa. -Okay.
-The second, Shiina. -Okay.
You'll run the first half.
The third, Togashi.
Okay.
And I'll take the anchor leg.
Shouldn't Togashi be the anchor?
I agree.
That may be a wiser choice, but…
I'll be back in top shape by then, trust me.
Understood.
And I'd like to use the downsweep pass.
Downsweep, huh?
It could save time compared to the push pass,
but it's also hard to see and make the exchange, you know?
But it may be worth a try, I suppose.
I'm aware of the risks.
We've gotta beat Katsunishi!
Katsunishi?
Yeah. Nigami's ex-school.
It'll be fun to smash them.
Yeah, they're a worthy opponent.
Darn it, the downsweep's harder than I thought.
Maybe I was a bit too hasty.
Stick!
So fast.
They're on another level. We'll try our best.
-Let's keep at it. -Yeah.
Nigami stayed behind. I'm worried that he's overworking himself.
Yeah, right?
Though he needs to push himself to get back into shape,
his back is basically a ticking time bomb.
Yeah, true.
What's with you, Asakusa? You look happy.
Of course I'm happy. I get to run with the esteemed Togashi and Nigami.
Suzume, we'll be running a relay with super athletes!
To think the club almost closed…
Now you mention it, it's kinda cool.
Though I've only ever seen Nigami looking glum,
and Togashi turned out to be an ordinary guy.
So, it didn't sink in at all.
What kind of guy did you think I was?
Hm? Well, I guess just as I imagined.
You don't make sense.
Though our club might still get disbanded, right?
I won't let that happen.
MIXED 800M RELAY
You forget something?
I came to check that you're not working yourself too hard.
Well, I mean, I know you can take care of yourself,
but overtraining can often be a problem after a long time off.
You're making it worse.
The race's in two days. I'll be careful.
Please do. Well then, I'll get going.
Why are you here?
You could've gone to a better school.
The pressure?
I became dependent upon it.
Running was the easiest option for my life.
The reason I was wanted, valued,
and why I didn't end up being alone is because I was fast.
That makes two of us.
Having a renowned father put me in a spot where I always had to win.
What I said to you back then was what my father told me.
"If you want to stay in the game, you must be absolute at all times."
The pressure was unbearable.
I had to ignore the warnings my body was giving me.
Things you earn on the track, you lose on the track.
If you fear that, you must keep winning, even by 0.001 seconds.
It's the only place we can go back to.
I thought Togashi and Nigami quit track.
Dunno.
Jeez, all eyes are on them.
Well, they're an eye-catching duo for everyone here.
Sup, dude.
It's been a while. You finally quit being a shut-in, Nigami?
Are you still slow, Onomichi?
Act tough all you like, dude.
Who's that?
That's Hirokazu Onomichi, he's been overshadowed by Nigami all his life.
I can hear you, you know?!
And his excuse was "I'm the youngest of our grade."
You were born 11 months before me. That age gap was huge, man!
If only you had talent, huh?
You were born on March 29th, right?
And you on April second, right?
I'm not gonna lose to a shut-in today, though.
What're you doing, Onomichi?
Coach!
Focus on the race.
Yes. Sorry, sir!
So you ended up at Iwani High?
Morning, sir.
Today is the day.
We did all we could over the past three weeks.
I know this event is like a rehearsal to other schools,
but this race surely has its own dignity.
These 800 meters…
We'll show them who we are.
He's not half bad.
As expected of his rival.
Self-proclaimed.
Hey, Nigami! Why the heck are you up there?!
When did I say I'd run the 100m?
Oh, I get it. You're focusing solely on the mixed 4x200m, right?
Bring it on, man!
He's pretty energetic.
He's just an idiot.
The mixed 4x200m relay begins shortly.
-There's Togashi! -Nigami too.
They're on the same team? Wow!
On your marks.
Set.
Aoi!
Suzume!
Nice.
I did it!
C'mon, step it up, Iwani High.
Sorry!
I can still catch up!
Seems it'll be a fair fight.
Sorry, the one I'm fighting against…
isn't you!
Nigami!
The club will go on?
Yeah, and we've got to enter the summer meet.
The vice principal said so.
Why the vice principal?
He used to be a track and field athlete, and the coach of Katsunishi
was his senior, wasn't he?
Oh, you might be right.
Good news for us anyhow, right?
Yeah.
Sure is.
Though I'm not fully convinced,
let's run anyway.
Togashi broke the championship record.
He'll dominate the Nationals as well.
You bet. He ain't got any rivals.
What about Nigami?
A bit far-fetched as he came in third, barely qualifying for the Nationals.
How about Tsuneda from Kyushu?
He's doing well, but still no match for Togashi.
Togashi had a slump for a time,
but he's been breaking his PB lately. What a monster.
He might break Zaitsu's time.
That'd be interesting.
Someone in Kitakyushu just tied Zaitsu's national record!
-No way! -Tsuneda?
Nope, some unknown first-year.
What's his name?
YEAR ONE KOMI…
A line like this can only be seen in elite schools, huh?
Uh, I guess.
I'm Numano from Daito Junior High.
Which school are you from?
I'm Komiya. I wasn't in my school's track club, though.
Wait, you're starting track and field now? At this powerhouse school?
Yeah, I've been practicing by myself to join this club.
Oh yeah? Where do you live?
Up by Nakatsu Mountain.
Then it must be a hell of a train journey.
Yes, so I cycle.
Jesus! For how long?
Two hours.
NISHIZAWA HIGH SCHOOL
Set.
Holy cow.
Tsuneda sure is the real deal.
Good to meet you all. I'm Tsuneda, captain of the club.
He's only a second-year, y'know?
The "entry test" may sound intimidating to you guys,
but wherever you run, 100 meters is 100 meters.
Set.
No. 23 looks pretty good.
What a shame, he had a strong start.
That first-year's start was awesome.
Guess he's the explosive type.
Hey, Komiya!
You were super fast, dude!
You seemed to slow down toward the end. You okay?
The start was incredible, despite your jerky form,
and you've got excellent balance.
Komiya always loses speed in the second half, right?
Yes, he does.
Captain, think about the questions.
Questions? Oh, for tomorrow?
A Q&A session with Mr. Zaitsu sounds super cool!
It's not that big a deal.
I'll go first since I'm the captain, but anyone can ask questions.
Well, I'd be too nervous.
As I said before, your high school years
are a very important time to determine your future careers.
As a five-time winner of the National Championships,
our school alumnus, Mr. Zaitsu, is giving you a great opportunity.
So please focus and listen carefully.
Mr. Zaitsu, please come to the stage.
Don't think too deeply, don't take society seriously,
don't be defensive, and attack even if you win.
Now, I'll take questions.
I have one.
Go ahead.
I'm Tsuneda, the captain of the Track and Field Club.
Mr. Zaitsu, until now, you… Oh, thank you.
Mr. Zaitsu, you have outstanding records under your belt,
and you're unbeatable. Why do you keep challenging yourself?
I'm a living thing. I'll die eventually, and I'll never be born again.
That's the reason.
Um…
Th-Thank you very much.
I have one more question.
How do you prepare yourself mentally when you're competing in big races?
I don't get afraid of defeat and focus on my performance.
Also, I tremble at defeat and crave results.
So you switch your thoughts depending on your mood?
No, I get benefit from both of them simultaneously.
So that you won't get nervous in any situation?
No, to enjoy being nervous at all times.
I see…
Hmm, thank you very much.
Next.
Yes.
You, over there.
My name is Komiya.
Mr. Zaitsu, how do you…
take care of your mental health?
I'm a short-distance runner, and I have an anxiety issue to deal with.
I injured my leg, which has since healed,
but it slows itself down when I get up to top speed.
So I'm wondering if you know any solutions for that.
To be honest, anxiety should not be dealt with.
Life is filled with possibilities to lose.
That's where the charm of life lies.
Fear is not unpleasant.
Safety is not pleasant.
Anxiety arises when you test yourself against yourself.
If one must offer something for glory,
give up your life, which is a mere mishmash of cells.
What is it that you want to do?
I want… to be a national record holder.
What's your name?
It's Komiya.
Jeez, that first-year's impressive.
Yeah.
Thank you for today, Zaitsu.
Did they treat you well?
Yes.
Is coffee okay?
Thank you, sir.
He's coming on strong.
Hm? Oh, Tsuneda?
Though only a second-year, he's the best in Kyushu.
His name will be known nationwide this year.
I bet. It's just a matter of time to see…
who the real gem is.
You seem to have fixed your problem of slowing down.
I have.
Even so, don't overtrain. Head home for today.
My legs are good, so I'll run a bit more before heading home.
I noticed your right leg when I first saw you run.
Mr. Zaitsu's advice helped me.
So it seems.
Maybe I shouldn't tell you this,
but you should quit track.
Have you noticed that your form is getting out of shape?
Yet, you're getting faster and faster.
There's only one reason why you can run at such speed.
It's your willpower!
That's a red flag. A runner who can remove their limiter via emotion has no brakes!
Even if they attain momentary glory, they'll keep running till they crash.
Your yips must've been your body's last warning.
Track and field will kill you one day!
I understand. Even someone like me can taste victory once, huh?
What? Didn't you hear what I said?
Thank you, captain.
Hey, hold on!
Oh my god!
Who the heck is he?
He beat Tsuneda's record!
Komiya, congrats on posting the top time in the qualifiers.
Your speed was insane, dude.
You or Tsuneda will win the final.
Damn, which one should I support then?
Just cheer on both of them.
Good call!
Oh, sorry for keeping you.
It's fine.
Excuse me.
Good luck in the final!
NATIONAL HS CHAMPIONSHIPS BOYS' 100M REGIONAL FINAL
On your marks.
Set.
KOMIYA TSUNEDA
NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL CHAMPIONSHIPS
Nigami.
Hey.
Gotta get past the prelims first.
Yeah, right?
I can't believe that…
my back's still holding up.
I'll do my very best.
Great.
See you later.
Okay.
KOMIYA
On your marks.
Set.
Good sprint, Nigami.
That was close.
Nah, I got crushed.
Good run.
Congrats, Togashi. It's amazing that you broke the meet record.
It was a wind-assisted time, but I'm feeling good.
I wish I could run against you one last time. Still, I feel great.
Good performance, Nigami.
That guy, Komiya…
He's deadly fast.
I know. If he didn't ease off toward the end, he could've…
Long time no see, Komiya.
Likewise.
I see you stuck with track.
Yeah.
How long has it been since our last race?
Mind if I beat you again?
Well, good luck with that.
EVACUATION ROUTE OVERVIEW
In lane one, Matsuba,
from Utsugikita High, Hiroshima.
In lane two, Nakanishi,
from Suzuna Chuo High, Osaka.
In lane three, Amagata,
from Natamame High, Shizuoka.
In lane four, Komiya,
from Nishizawa High, Oita.
In lane five, Togashi,
from Iwashi Daini High, Tokyo.
On your marks.
Set.
Togashi, your running style changed.
TEN YEARS LATER
So, taking your performance into account…
we're renewing our contract.
Phew, that's a relief.
Now I can relax.
Well, Togashi, I hate to bring this up,
but keep in mind you just scraped by. This is a key year for you.
Yes, of course. I'll take that to heart, certainly.
I'll be going now.
-Wait, I forgot to give you this. -Yes?
It's next month. Join us if you can.
Team-gathering?
Yes. Kaido and Kabaki will be there. Maybe you can ask for some advice?
Advice from them?
That's right. You're not what you used to be.
You may find the key to your comeback.
Oh, okay.
Morning, Kabaki.
Good morning, Togashi.
I got my contract renewed, but only just made it, again.
I see.
Togashi.
You've changed.
Huh?
You're far from the Togashi I used to see when I was a kid.
Heh, heh. Well, we gotta face reality, don't we?
I'll do my best, as it could be my last year.
I wasn't in top form today,
but the new season's just started, so I'll polish it up gradually.
JAPAN TRACK-AND-FIELD NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
KUSASHINO CORP. TRACK AND FIELD GATHERING
As the popularity of track and field is growing,
we've been supporting athletes competing at the forefront of the field.
Now, I'd like to invite on stage our star athlete,
who's been competing in major short-distance races
for the last 15 years.
Let's hear from Mr. Kaido!
Hi there, I'm Kaido.
I've been in the game for a long time, but my peak has yet to come.
I've been striving to better my PB time each year.
One thing I know for sure is reality won't just fade away on its own.
So, it's time I deal with this persistent reality called Zaitsu.
That's it from me, Kaido.
Thank you for your inspirational speech, Mr. Kaido!
How to deal with reality?
Yes, sir.
You just need to rise above it by breaking records.
That's what I thought. But you see, it's awfully hard.
Since when did you become a wimp, Togashi?
Well, I mean, my value is steadily diminishing these days.
Yeah? Well, just dismissing you with logic would be boring,
but I can give you my story.
First off, I'm 100% certain that I'm incredibly gifted.
I'm a natural-born runner, especially over short distances.
I was never defeated in my region when I was a kid.
I got my ass kicked at the Nationals, so I worked hard to be faster.
In my final year of high school, I could smell my first victory at the Nationals.
Then, a 15-year-old Zaitsu showed up. And ever since then,
I've been forced to live with this reality
where he's always one step ahead of me.
The reality where I never win and earned my nickname "Forever Second."
The reality where I age every second and a youngster named Komiya emerges.
He's not a youngster anymore, is he?
I'm sick of hearing "Shame he wasn't born in another era."
It's funny that this reality doesn't allow me to win.
But also it's funny that I'm 100% sure I'll taste victory next time.
Do you know why?
No, sir.
Because you can escape from reality.
Huh?
If my victory is unrealistic, I must escape from that reality.
Escaping reality means I have hopes for myself.
It shows I haven't given up on me.
No matter what opinions, insights, truths, or enlightenment
people around me may throw at me, I value myself.
That's my mission, work, reason to live, and why I run.
Listen, Togashi. You can escape reality as long as you grasp why you run.
-Mr. Kaido. -Oh, hello.
-This is Sekiguchi, our newbie. -Hi.
I'm Sekiguchi, it's an honor to meet you, Mr. Kaido.
So you intend to stick around for the time being?
Yes.
I'd like to put my past behind me and try my best with who I am now.
What're your thoughts on Komiya, who's continuing to remain at the forefront?
Well, I'd like to run against him on the track again.
And lastly, what is it that you keep on running for?
What for?
Good question.
Excuse me, Mr. Togashi?
Yes.
Pleased to meet you.
Likewise.
Wow, this is exciting. I'm Morikawa.
Morikawa…
You won the last High School Nationals.
You know of me? You just made my day, sir!
Your sprinting inspired me to take up track!
Can I ask for a handshake, sir?
Oh, of course.
Thank you so much!
Hey, Togashi.
Mr. Kaido.
Thank you for the other day.
How are things with you?
I've a bit gotten better, and I've started to vaguely realize
I don't run to win, but for someone else out there. That's my reason for running.
Could be my ticket to escaping reality.
Oh yeah?
Everyone sure has their own answers, but this is what I think.
Until you know your own reality, you can't escape from it.
Running away with your eyes open and standing still with them closed differ.
Looking straight into reality is terrifying, you see.
You must accept things you hate.
But if you want to change reality, or negate it, you must face it first.
As soon as you close your eyes, you'll stop moving for good.
Watch yourself, Togashi.
I will.
Oh my god, Togashi! Togashi!
You came in second and almost tied with Kabaki.
You cleared the B qualifying standard!
Thank you.
Frankly, it was totally unexpected.
I feel the same way.
Yeah, right?
Now you're qualified for this year's championships.
I can't wait to see your epic comeback!
I'll try my best.
Boy, I'm so thrilled!
Hi, Togashi.
Good day.
-How're you doing? -Not bad at all.
Ready…
KOYAMACHO HOSPITAL
It's a muscle strain.
What?
I advise you to sit out competing this year.
But the National Championships are a week away.
Don't take a muscle strain lightly.
If you keep pushing now and the muscle gets completely torn, your career's over.
But I've got to run…
Six months of rehab is what's best for you in the long term.
Concentrate on your recovery. There's always next year.
What?
Sorry about the injury, but your contract will be terminated if you can't compete.
Are you serious?
Afraid so.
Look here, it's stated in the contract.
However, as we recognize your distinguished service, Togashi,
we'd like you to continue supporting us as a track and field coach from now on.
Read through this paperwork, and if you're happy…
That looked good.
Can we beat Class 4 now?
Hmm… Do you think bigger steps are better?
That might make us faster.
-No, it's the opposite. -Huh?
Too wide strides mess up your balance.
Oh, sorry, I interrupted you, didn't I?
What do you mean by "strides"?
Instead of extending your legs forward, push your feet against the ground
each step you take.
Push my feet down…
Yeah, just like that.
Alright, let's try it out.
Yeah. Thank you, mister.
Thank you very much.
Sports Day coming up?
-Yes. -Yes.
He's the anchor, and I'm before him.
We wanna beat Class 4.
I see. So you've got a rival in Class 4.
Listen, dealing with defeat is far more important than technique.
What?
Even if you try your very best, you may lose, but that's okay.
It's not like your life is in danger. If you prepare yourself to lose,
you may even perform better sometimes.
Speed isn't everything. Just take it easy.
Why should you sacrifice your life…
My whole life…
What's with him? Let's go.
Yeah.
AIDA HOSPITAL
Hey, Togashi.
Nigami.
Lemme give you a lift.
Thank you for introducing me to a good doctor.
No worries. Boy, it's a week away, right?
I just need to run three more 100m sprints at full effort.
You remind me of myself back in high school.
I was scared to death,
but for that moment, for that fleeting moment,
I could give up my life.
Before I knew it, I was dead inside just trying to live for tomorrow.
The next race represents the 25 years of my life… and the present.
If all I'm going to do is keep living the continuation of yesterday,
I'll lose the ability to run with all my strength now.
You well, Mr. Kabaki?
Not too bad I guess.
Today's prelim is like a warmup for tomorrow's final…
Morning, Kabaki.
Good morning.
How's your injury, Togashi?
Well, I'll manage, but I'm not in the clear.
I see.
See you on the track.
Sure.
Mr. Togashi's in your heat, right?
-Well, with a view toward the final… -That changes things.
Game on.
Kabaki takes the win! Togashi grabs second!
You're always well prepared, aren't you?
Mr. Zaitsu.
Easy win in the prelims, I heard.
You too.
Thinking about when you brought up anxiety and mental health really takes me back.
That talk was helpful. Now I've got a clear goal thanks to you.
A goal, huh?
Yes.
Odds and math, trends and strategy. The great record beyond them is my goal.
I'll win the next race.
I'm impressed. To think you'd stake your entire life on a record…
Is that a compliment?
Nope, I pity you.
I lost my fighting spirit in exchange for the title of "undisputed champion."
The faster I go, the more everyone falls behind.
When I look to the side, nobody's there.
The view from that position is the same as that from last place.
It's boring as hell.
What gives us a true triumph and joy is neither records nor medals.
It's opponents.
First place earned by competing with someone…
-That's… -I have my own way, thanks.
Yeah, I suppose so.
Don't let me down.
The men's 100m semi-final, heat one.
On your marks.
Kabaki and Togashi are the favorites here for sure.
Can Morikawa, the 17-year-old new star, keep up with them?
Togashi in first, Kabaki in second.
Morikawa, the youngest, was close but finished in third.
Zaitsu, Komiya, and Kaido… Japan's current top three are all here.
It's practically the final.
Zaitsu seems to have declined lately, so my money is on Komiya this time.
Zaitsu only looks that way 'cause he was brutally fast in his heyday.
Anyhow, it'll be Zaitsu or Komiya.
Yep, either Zaitsu or Komiya.
Zaitsu or Komiya.
-Zaitsu or Komiya. -Zaitsu or Komiya.
-Zaitsu or Komiya, no doubt!
Zaitsu or Komiya.
-Who will it be? -Zaitsu or Komiya.
-Zaitsu or… Komiya. -Zaitsu or Komiya, I bet.
Zaitsu or Komiya, Zaitsu or Komiya…
Am I not in the game?
Heat two of the semi-finals is about to begin!
How will Kaido handle himself against Zaitsu and Komiya?
Set.
I see, this is reality, huh?
Alright, time to start escaping reality right now!
Kaido takes the win, Komiya in second, and Zaitsu in fifth.
Unbelievable! Zaitsu's eliminated in the semi-final!
Kaido finally defeated Zaitsu!
And his time is the second best in Japan's entire history!
Komiya.
It's been a while, again.
Long time no see.
I finally get to run against you for the first time in ten years.
Mm-hm. Have you ever thought about this, Togashi?
How futile it is to run the same distance every day?
For the last ten years, I've thought only of setting records.
In fact, I've thought of nothing else.
But just now, my record was beaten by someone who doesn't care about records.
No calculations, no trends or strategy. His tenacity was his only drive.
Even if I set a new record again, what's waiting for me beyond that?
Maybe there's nothing to gain by being fast,
and nothing to lose by being slow.
If so, what on earth
is that brief moment for?
And what is this race for?
What the hell are we running for?
Well, it's obvious.
For us to give our absolute all. We need nothing else.
Looking back, my life has been so frantic.
I was afraid of losing and being isolated, then I thought I was unbeatable.
As a result, I'd avert my eyes from defeat,
then I had this odd belief that I was protected.
But I'm here because of my past.
We humans grasp only our own hearts. There's no place anyone truly belongs.
Your mind creates solidarity, empathy, and affection.
Everything in this world makes us anxious.
And ultimately, we all die in the end.
Think about it, we're all messed up.
However, none of these
can strip the sheer joy that we feel when we're giving our all.
I've seen it countless times, and I've felt it just as much.
Unfortunately, I've never seen it or felt it even once myself.
This futile game has no solution.
Komiya, you seem to have forgotten about the simple rule.
That is, running the 100m faster than anyone else can solve anything.
You have found, aimed for, and honed your incredible speed all on your own.
Do you find it futile?
When we run, everything else disappears. In a sharpened world, everything shines.
If you haven't experienced that,
let's witness it together in this upcoming 100m.
Mr. Zaitsu, you suddenly slowed down. Were you injured?
Did you have an accident?
Everyone, I have an announcement to make.
As of today, I'm retiring as a professional athlete.
What? Did you just say you were retiring?
For any specific reason?!
Hey! Mr. Zaitsu is retiring!
Is your defeat earlier the reason?!
Or an injury by any chance?
Since I'm no longer a sprinter at this moment, I can say this out loud.
The 100m condenses a whole life into a single moment.
A centimeter gap or a few grams difference can destroy you.
However,
that's why we feel euphoria.
There's a richness that only that distance allows.
We're here with Mr. Zaitsu, who's just announced his retirement.
-Wait! -Last request!
Would you give a few words to those sprinters competing in the final?
Hope, disappointment,
glory, setback,
fatigue, satisfaction,
frustration, accomplishment,
along with all other emotions.
Stuff all of them into the 100m,
and savor the finest ten seconds.
-Mr. Zaitsu. -Just a minute!
ALARM
OKRA HOTEL
Day two at the National Championships. Next, the men's 100m final.
King of the 100m, Zaitsu, was eliminated in the semis
and shockingly announced his retirement yesterday.
The history of track and field is about to change.
Tonight, we will be witnessing a historical moment.
Who will be the fastest man?
The National Championships men's 100m final!
PLEASE KEEP QUIET DURING THE START!
On your marks.
THE FINAL RACE
WILL BE FINISHED
IN TEN SECONDS