Introducing the Organizing Committee Members NEW
Hello everyone.
We are relieved and encouraged to see the number of race entries steadily increasing.
This time, we would like to introduce the members of the Echigo Country Trail Organizing Committee.
The Echigo Country Trail is a race created and supported by the local community.
The organizing team consists of ordinary people living in Oguni Town, Nagaoka City, and the surrounding areas.
While balancing work, family, and daily life, each member supports the race in their own role.
Who are the people behind the race, and what motivates them to be involved in Echigo Country Trail?
We hope to share a glimpse of the faces and thoughts of those who make this event possible.
Organizing Committee Chair: Takeshi Ando
My name is Takeshi Ando, Chair of the Organizing Committee.
I may look serious and quiet at first, but I am actually a warm-hearted person.
I might look younger than I really am—but in truth, I’m already a senior!
My hobbies are golf and badminton.
“Let the Trail Community Shine!”
Why not come and experience the great outdoors with us?
We look forward to welcoming you to the Echigo Country Trail.
Race Operations Director: Koki Nakazawa
My name is Koki Nakazawa, and I serve as the Course Director.
I will do my best to prepare smooth and enjoyable trails so that runners can fully experience the local satoyama landscape and the warm spirit of Oguni Town.
Our goal is to create a race that makes participants want to come back and run again!
Race Operations (Course Aid & Main Venue): Jun Aoyagi
My name is Jun Aoyagi. I serve as the MC at the main venue each year.
I finished the race five consecutive times from the very first edition, and later joined the staff.
We will give a warm and enthusiastic welcome to all runners returning to the finish line after overcoming every challenge.
Race Operations (Medical Support): Tetsuro Takahashi
My name is Tetsuro Takahashi, and I am in charge of medical support and emergency transport.
In case of injury or health issues during the race, we work closely with doctors, nurses, and staff to provide appropriate care.
Please take good care of your health before race day.
We sincerely look forward to welcoming you.
Planning & Operations Director: Masato Tanaka
My name is Masato Tanaka, and I am responsible for planning and overall operations.
We strive to create a race that is enjoyable not only for runners, but also for the local community and staff.
Planning & Operations (Registration & School Coordination): Takahiro Aoyagi
My name is Takahiro Aoyagi.
After retiring, I ran the short course five times as a companion to my grandchild (an elementary school student).
On race day, I will be waiting for you at the registration desk.
Planning & Operations (General Support): Kenichi Kaneko
My name is Kenichi Kaneko, and I support the race behind the scenes.
Seven years ago, I moved from Gunma Prefecture to a remote mountain area in Kashiwazaki City.
Through a wonderful connection, I have since become involved with Oguni Town, the host area of Echigo Country Trail.
If you are considering joining the race, why not experience “true rural Japan” through this event?
There is a warmth here that you can feel, even if you can’t quite put it into words.
We look forward to seeing you on June 14!
Public Relations: Jun Hirohashi
My name is Jun Hirohashi, and I am in charge of public relations.
On the official website, we aim to share not only race information, but also helpful local highlights, dining spots, and behind-the-scenes stories that participants may find useful when visiting Echigo Country Trail.
You might just discover something special when you visit the site!
As a personal hobby, I am also restoring a small pond near Aid Station 1 as a biotope.
If you’re interested, please take a look: Satoyama Treasure Box – Hiuchi Pond.
Each year, our team works together to ensure a safe and enjoyable race experience for all runners.
Photos and portrait illustrations are provided by each member.Some illustrations are created by AI based on photographs.
