Spirited Away in Japan

Marathon runner Hong Anh Pham is fulfilling a long-held dream by visiting Japan. She’s also taking a major step forward in her career. After Berlin, London, Boston, New York and Chicago, she's just one star away from becoming a World Marathon Major. Welcome to her travels, powered by Mover, naturally.

One last run before D-Day. A risky decision, as athletes prefer to respect a long period of rest before the race. But today, curiosity overpowers caution. Tokyo is on her doorstep, and for Hong, the best way to visit a city is to run it. She dashes through the Asakuza district, in a patchwork of bustling avenues bordered by skyscrapers and narrow streets that seem to lead into the past. Immersed in the familiar rhythm of training, her heartbeat is in check, as is her breathing. Hong's trained pace has taken her far away, but she feels at home.

With its chilly mornings and evenings, March in Japan is better enjoyed with Merino. After a few hectic days of training and the constant stimulation of an Asian megapole, the softness of brushed merino feels like a reward in itself. A time for self-appreciation, to acknowledge how far you've come. And as the last rays of light disappear behind the hills, we would like the moment to last a little longer.

Farewell Hong, and keep chasing stars.