Monterey Ekiden

Experience the unique tradition of Ekiden at the Monterey Ekiden race held at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. This twilight relay event, beginning its journey at 5:00 PM, invites teams to embrace the spirit of teamwork and endurance as they pass a traditional Japanese sash called atasuki from one teammate to another.
As runners complete their 2.2-mile laps around this iconic raceway, they are not just competing but also celebrating cultural heritage. The event kicks off with a vibrant Cultural Faire & Fitness Expo from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, featuring live performances and interactive exhibits that showcase Japanese culture.
Highlights of the day include a powerful Taiko drum performance at 4:00 PM, adding an exhilarating rhythm to your run. Post-race festivities are just as impressive with a Japanese street food festival, a beer garden offering local brews, and a sunset dance party set to the beats of DJ mr.y831.
Team spirit runs high throughout this event. Participants can form teams based on diverse interests—teachers, coworkers, families, running clubs, or even creative costume groups. During registration, you have the opportunity to challenge another team for bonus raffle entries and bragging rights.
Monterey Ekiden is more than a race; it's an experience that supports local students in exploring Japanese culture through travel and education. All runners receive a commemorative tenugui as part of their participation, making this event not just about the run but also about embracing tradition and community.
Join us for what promises to be a memorable evening under the stars at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca!