Today, I witnessed a rather special moment. The location: Okudaya Giken’s second parking lot. In the gentle rain, Sales Department Manager Katsuki (48) and new employee Shinzawa (22) engaged in a “serious competition” that transcended age and position—a 20m shuttle run challenge.

Manager Katsuki is a veteran with 14 years of marathon experience, boasting a sub-3-hour full marathon record. On the other hand, Shinzawa challenges with the weapons of youth and agility honed in the soccer club. This match has a little twist: “if Manager Katsuki loses, he’ll treat to yakiniku;” “if Shinzawa loses, he’ll treat to ramen”. It’s a battle of pride and determination, with a meal at stake.

Right from the start, both run with light, rhythmic steps, still energetic even after 30 laps. They continue their smooth run while keeping an eye on each other.

As they reach 49, 50 laps—around this point, a hint of fatigue appears on Shinzawa’s face. His breathing becomes slightly labored, but he still strives to maintain his pace.

Meanwhile, Manager Katsuki’s run is the epitome of stability. Each step produced by his well-trained body shows machine-like precision, demonstrating endurance that belies his 48 years. Before we know it, they’ve surpassed 70 laps!
“How long will this match continue…?”

As such an atmosphere begins to settle—

“I can’t go on…!”
Shinzawa finally stops. His record: 75 laps.
Slumping down, he mutters—“Manager Katsuki isn’t human…” It was the moment he admitted complete defeat.

Beside him, Manager Katsuki continues to run silently. Matching his breath to the accelerating music, he accurately completes lap after lap. And finally, that moment comes for Manager Katsuki too. —105 laps!
A record far exceeding the high school average (80-90 laps). It was truly an impressive finish. “I thought I could win…” Shinzawa says regretfully, while Manager Katsuki’s back seemed to speak volumes.
—“Daily effort triumphs over youth.”

I wonder if he pushed himself just to say that super cool line…

More than the result of the match, I was deeply moved by his daily training and his attitude of willingly accepting a young person’s challenge.

By the way, the fate of the ramen… remains unconfirmed (laughs)
This battle was undoubtedly not just a simple recreation, but a heart-stirring drama where determination, pride, and respect intersected.

So, how about trying the shuttle run yourself?

Calling all challengers!
Watch the competition unfold on TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@okudaya_giken