For Japanese endurance athlete Mai Fujisawa, the upcoming TCS New York City Marathon marks another milestone in a remarkable career.
Already a three-time consecutive AbbottWMM MTT Age Group World Champion, Fujisawa is now aiming for her fourth straight title and her first on the streets of New York.
Despite her consistent success, Fujisawa’s approach remains grounded.
“When I’m actually running, I don’t think about my ranking, I just focus on my own running," she said. "I believe that if I perform to the best of my ability, the results will come naturally.”
Fujisawa has been representing Japan in 100km ultramarathons since 2008 and estimates she runs around ten marathons a year around the world. For her, running marathons is part of her training regime.
Looking towards her upcoming date with NYC she insists her approach will stay the same.
“Race to race I don’t change my preparation much. I run for the feeling, and my best effort has brought me three straight victories. Going into New York that attitude won’t change.”
This will be Fujisawa’s first time racing in New York, and her excitement is clear. “I'm looking forward to everything from the start to the finish line to the cheers from the roadside,” she said.
With 168 marathons already behind her, she has learned how to stay calm amid the noise and energy of major races - with New York generally acknowledged as being the most lively.
“I approach every marathon with a calm mind, the most important thing is to do my best and never give up until the end," she added.
After crossing the finish line, Fujisawa plans to celebrate with her teammates from Japan who have supported her throughout her journey. Her advice to runners of all ages is simple but powerful.
“Accept who you are now and continue running, making having fun your top priority!”
As for what New York means to her, Fujisawa sums it up in one sentence. “There is only a challenge.”
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