Takanobu Minoshima recently completed the Osaka Marathon in an impressive time of three hours and 28 minutes, wearing traditional Japanese sandals known as geta. Geta are wooden clogs balanced on two or one stilts, and in this case, Minoshima wore only one tooth per shoe. He ran slowly, as if walking on tip-toes, while other runners ran effortlessly.
Despite the uncomfortable shoes, Minoshima was all smiles when he reached the 15.5-km mark and even waved to the crowd. The 42-kilometer race was more difficult for him after the 27-kilometer mark, when he had to turn around. His five-kilometer duration averaged less than 25 minutes.
Minoshima hails from Sapporo, Hokkaido, and is a fan of Japanese traditions and sports. This was the 13th time he has run the marathon in one-tooth getas.
Running a marathon is a challenge for many, especially if they are not used to running long distances and lack endurance. Minoshima’s feat is a testament to the skill and dedication it takes to complete a marathon in such a unique way.