Students interview Yuko Arimori and Naoki Koyama to highlight WCH Tokyo 25

Twelve junior high and high school students stepped behind the scenes of WCH Tokyo 25, interviewing marathon medalist Yuko Arimori and marathon representative Naoki Koyama, and exploring the preparations that make a world-class athletics championship possible.

At the Japan National Stadium, the students toured normally restricted areas, including athlete warm-up rooms, the press and mixed zones, and camera rooms. They also witnessed live action in the stands during the JAAF Athletics Championships, experiencing the intensity of events such as the women’s 100m hurdles and men’s pole vault firsthand.

Yuko Arimori spoke with the children, commenting on how best to enjoy the competition. She stated "Watch how athletes use their whole body—how fast they run, how high or far they can jump or throw. It shows the incredible potential of the human body.”

When asked about his preparations for WCH Tokyo 25, Naoki Koyama commented saying “I’ll use my knowledge of Tokyo’s conditions to my advantage. I hope fans’ support will carry me to the finish line. Look out for my race strategy and positioning in the final stages!”

The students also visited the World Athletics Museum (MOWA) at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Director Chris Turner showcased interactive exhibits that make athletics accessible even to those new to the sport, including donated shoes, life-size panels of Usain Bolt, and full-scale world record displays.

The overarching theme of WCH Tokyo 25 is “Delivering Dreams to Children”, reflected in initiatives such as inviting schoolchildren to watch the championships and donating relay batons to local schools. Through this unique experience, the students saw firsthand the passion, preparation, and teamwork that go into producing a world-class event.

Masaki, a student reporter, commented on the overall experience saying “Seeing both athletes and staff working with so much energy and dedication really made me appreciate how much effort goes into every detail of the championships.”

With competitions, exhibitions, and youth engagement, WCH Tokyo 25 promises excitement for everyone, from devoted athletics fans to first-time spectators!