[Start Ceremony] Sunflowers of "Thanks＆Friendship " bloom together

Sunflowers of Thanks＆Friendship that bloom together
~Runners, volunteers, courseside supporters, and everyone involved~

Let's make the sunflowers of "Thanks＆Friendship" bloom together at the start ceremony.

The theme of the Kobe Marathon is “Thanks＆Friendship”

At the root of this is the desire to make the event an expression of gratitude to the people and regions in Japan and abroad who have extended their help to us, both in the recovery from the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and up to the present day.

Therefore, at the start ceremony of the Kobe Marathon, everyone involved in the race will make a large sunflower bloom in order to convey our gratitude to everyone who has extended a helping hand to the recovery through the "sunflower", which is a symbol of earthquake recovery. That's what I think.

① Silence
We will hold a moment of silence for the victims of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and other disaster-stricken areas both domestically and internationally. Please refrain from speaking privately during the silent prayer.

②Singing "Shiawasehakoberuyouni"
After the moment of silence, the symbolic song "Shiawasehakoberuyouni" to pray for recovery from the earthquake, so please sing along. Lyrics cards for "Shiawasehakoberuyouni" will be given to you at the runner reception desk along with "sunflower gloves."

③ Let's all bloom "sunflowers" toward the sky
After singing the chorus, there will be an explanatory announcement where you will spread your hands wide, so please raise your hands high in the sky while wearing your "sunflower gloves." "Sunflower gloves'' will be handed out at runner reception.

Please do not throw away your "Sunflower Gloves" on the road.