Over the weekend, I took part in the OMM race for the first time, held in Nozawa Onsen, Nagano Prefecture. (There was a stall there, but I forgot to take photos lol.) What is OMM? It stands for Original Mountain Marathon, and is a race where you follow checkpoints (CPs) set up in the mountains and collect points, like a treasure hunt for adults.

Team Milestone is ready. Just before the start, they are given a map and use a compass to find the checkpoints.

There are six different courses in total, and the one we participated in was called "Straight B." You have to follow checkpoints 1 to 7 in order.

The course unfolds in the midst of magnificent scenery. It sounds like a lot of fun, but you have to carry everything you need: a tent, sleeping bag, food, drinks, extra clothes, and warm clothing.

photo by official photographer, Shimpei Koseki

When I find a CP, I feel so happy I can't contain myself.

photo by official photographer, Shimpei Koseki

As a beginner, I was carrying a backpack weighing about 20 kg to protect myself from the cold, so it was quite tough.

On the first day, we safely reached the goal within the time limit (about 6 hours). The tent site was in a great location right next to the lake.

We checked the weather and quickly set up our tents at an altitude of 1,300m.

The next day, we woke up at 5am. In the rain, we had breakfast, packed up our tents and hurried to the starting point.

The heart-pounding steep slope was tough.

Also, my partner misread the map and we got lost in the bushes. I was like, "Seriously? There's no time to take pictures!" lol

Still, it was a very fulfilling three days running, rolling, laughing, and struggling through scenery like this.

My partner Hidepi was the best navigator! Thank you for the three days.

The OMM race brings together strong competitors from all over the country to compete.

It was a very stimulating event with a great lineup of adventure racers, trail runners, hikers and other participants from different walks of life.

Team Milestone came in 47th overall and 26th in the men's category. Not bad, right? Lol

I think I understand a little bit more why people from all over the country participate in OMM every year.

I would like to thank everyone at OMM who organized the event, the exhibitors, and everyone who participated. I would like to try again next time.