Finding mindfulness in long-distance running. Shion Miura wrote another wonderful novel about perseverance, friendship and personal growth in Japan.
風が強く吹いている “Kaze ga Tsuyoku Fuiteiru”: The literal translation of the title is “the wind is blowing hard”, but you’ll find this title translated in English as “Run with the wind.” Although the theme is long-distance running, which has no connection to my personal world at all, I was soon captivated by the story. One reason is that the characters are all so alive and relatable, and the very Japanese “underdog makes it” theme is one I really like.
The story starts when Kakeru, a troubled but gifted runner, literally runs into Haiji when he’s being pursued by an angry shopkeeper for stealing some bread out of hunger. Initially it seems like Haiji is just helping out, but it soon becomes clear that he has a dream he can only pursue with Kakeru’s help: running in the Hakone Ekiden.
I didn’t know this before reading the book, but the Hakone Ekiden is a century-old tradition held in early January, where university teams undertake a grueling 218 km relay race over two days. Teams of ten runners each cover specific distances between Tokyo and Mt. Hakone and back.
Haiji needs 9 other participants, and with Kakeru’s arrival, he encourages his flat mates into training to qualify for the relay race. They are a motley crew, a team of individuals who initially seem unlikely to succeed in competitive running. They face numerous challenges, including self-doubt, societal expectations, and the pressure of competition.
I was so impressed with the transformation of the characters during the story, and how much running helps them in their personal journey to adulthood.
Now for the story, will they win? Once they start running the race it’s a rollercoaster of events, I was captivated until the last page!
Will I now suddenly start running long-distance? I don’t think so, but the book definitely made me think of what brings me into the zone. For me, reading a good book ranks high on that list.
What about you?
