Meio University Scores First-Ever National University Women’s Ekiden Qualifying Spot – translated by Brett Larner – Japan Running News

The Kyushu Region Qualifier for the 33rd National University Women's Ekiden took place June 21 at Heiwadai Field in Chuo-ku, Fukuoka. 

+Appearing for the first time in its short 21-year existence, Okinawa's Meio University scored a place at the Oct. 25 Nationals in Sendai, its six athletes' combined 5000 m times in the qualifying meet totalling 2:01:56.

First among them was senior Ayumi Shirakawa, 22, who commented, "This is the first time I've ever made it to the National level.  Even if I can move us up one position I'll be happy."

Among other Kyushu Region schools, Fukuoka University and Kagoshima's Kanoya Taiiku University both hold seeded places from their performances at the 2014 National University Women's Ekiden.

translated by Brett Larner – Japan Running News

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