The Tokyo Marathon made history on March 2 by introducing a nonbinary category for the first time, solidifying its commitment to inclusivity and recognizing the diversity of runners. A total of 38 participants, including 23 from overseas, registered in the division, marking a groundbreaking moment for one of Japan’s most prestigious sporting events.
The move positions the Tokyo Marathon as one of the first major races in Japan to take this progressive step, inspiring calls for more events to follow suit. The addition of the nonbinary category aligns Tokyo with the other five Abbott World Marathon Majors — Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London, and New York — all of which have already embraced gender diversity in recent years.
“The Tokyo Marathon Foundation is committed to promoting DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) and aims to be the most inclusive race in the world,” the foundation said in a statement ahead of the event.
The decision follows a 2019 pledge with Pride House Tokyo, an organization dedicated to creating safe spaces for LGBTQ athletes, to promote gender diversity in sports.
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A Historic Moment for Runners
Among the participants was Cal Calamia, a 28-year-old American activist and runner who has been a leading voice in advocating for nonbinary inclusion in marathons.
“I’m incredibly grateful and excited to be part of this historic moment,” said Calamia, who traveled to Japan for the first time to compete in the race.
Calamia, who uses both he and they pronouns, has been instrumental in pushing for nonbinary categories in major marathons worldwide. Their efforts began in 2022 when they successfully advocated for nonbinary recognition at San Francisco’s Bay to Breakers race. Since then, they have competed in every U.S. Marathon Major that offers a nonbinary division.
“This is more than just a category; it’s about visibility and validation for nonbinary athletes,” Calamia added. “Tokyo’s decision sends a powerful message that we belong in sports, just like everyone else.”
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A Growing Movement for Inclusivity
The Tokyo Marathon’s introduction of a nonbinary category is part of a broader global trend toward inclusivity in sports. The New York City Marathon, the first World Marathon Major to add a nonbinary division in 2021, set a precedent by awarding prize money to its top nonbinary finishers in 2022. Similarly, the London Marathon saw over 100 nonbinary participants in its inaugural year offering the category in 2023.
The inclusion of the category in the Tokyo Marathon is a significant step forward. The race also provided gender-neutral restrooms and changing areas at the start line, finish area, and along the course, ensuring a welcoming environment for all participants.
The Tokyo Marathon’s decision has sparked conversations about the need for greater inclusivity in Japanese sports. As one of the first major events in the country to recognize nonbinary athletes, the marathon is seen as a trailblazer in a nation where LGBTQ rights and visibility are still evolving.
“The recognition of nonbinary athletes at Tokyo represents the power of collective advocacy and will have effects across the globe that reach far beyond the running world,” Calamia said. “It’s imperative that these divisions do more than just exist — they must be celebrated and supported.”
With the 2025 race now in the books, the Tokyo Marathon has set a new standard for inclusivity, inspiring hope for a future where all athletes, regardless of gender identity, can compete on equal footing.
