Royal Air Force News Friday, July 10, 2026 P17
UK Ekiden 2026 Feature
Matcha? We’ll beat ya! WINDSOR: Star and finish pointt
TALE OF THE TAPE: A delighted Flt Lt Harry Brierley and teammates AS1 Lucy Williams (left) and Sgt Cat Cory (right)
Personnel take on Japanese endurance challenge Staff Reporter SERVICE ENDURANCE stars took on teams from the UK’s top universities and blue chip firms in one of the running world’s most unique events... the 76mile Japanese Ekiden relay race. The Thames-side route took in some of the South East’s most historic landmarks – starting and finishing in the Royal town of Windsor – and is a traditional Eastern test of resilience and teamwork. The event also showcases the strong business, educational and military ties between Britain and Japan, said organiser Anna Dingley. The Air Force drew on talent from across the Service, with Odiham fielding four of the 10-strong team. Speaking after completing the final leg, 43 Sqn’s Flt Lt Harry Brierley said: “It has been a privilege to captain the Royal Air Force team at UK Ekiden for the last two iterations of the race. “Having worked closely with the Koku-Jieitai [Japan’s Air Self-Defence Force], the race carries particular meaning for me. “It was therefore an honour to take the tape – by some margin – at this year’s race, although a technicality meant we were unable to emerge as official victors.
“We have been quicker year on year, however, and so, as word spreads about how incredible this race is, the depth of talent in the RAF should ensure we claim the win next time.” The UK event is now in its third year and also featured runners from 17 university teams, including the guest team from Ritsumeikan University in Japan, and competitors from six Japanese companies. Lord Hugh Trenchard, the grandson of the RAF’s founding father, is an ambassador for the event. He said: “As Honorary Air Commodore of 600 (City of London) Sqn, located just down the road at Northolt, I was also there to support the Royal Air Force team, which actually finished first in the corporations and communities group. “Having lived and worked in Japan for more than 12 years, I am delighted that the British Ekiden has really taken off and also strongly welcome the support for the Ekiden given by the Royal Air Force and its impressive runners, ably led by Harry Brierley.” Top honours went to the Oxford University team, who overhauled the visiting Ritsumeikan Uni runners by just two seconds, with a time of 6 hrs and 49 mins. The RAF topped the Corporate and Community section with a time of 7 hrs and 33 mins.
BEAT THAT: Japanese drums