16 May – TSUNEISHI GROUP (ZHOUSHAN) SHIPBUILDING INC. (TZS) successfully hosted its first-ever Ekiden relay race, a long-distance team relay event, on its premises.
The event was organised as a joint initiative alongside TSUNEISHI (ZHOUSHAN) IRON WORKS CO., LTD. and TSUNEISHI (SHANGHAI) SHIP DESIGN CO., LTD.

Under the theme “Building Connections Through Youth and Teamwork”, this landmark first event offered participants a valuable opportunity to strengthen personal bonds and foster teamwork through the shared experience of running together.

On the day, teams assembled in an orderly fashion, and Mr Takahashi, General Factory Manager of TZS, led the participants in a warm-up session. During his opening remarks, Mr Takahashi said: “In our daily operations, teamwork is essential across all aspects of safety, quality, and production. The same holds true for an Ekiden race; the essence of the race is not simply speed, but trust, communication, and mutual support among teammates. I hope everyone can cross departmental and age boundaries to experience the strength of a renewed team dynamic.”
He also reminded participants of the event’s message: “Safety First, Complete the Race Happily” and expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the committee and secretariat members who dedicated their time to making the event possible.

Opening address by Mr Takahashi, General Factory Manager of TZS

Participants performing warm-up exercises

At the starting signal, the race officially began.
Runners demonstrated powerful, swift strides on the track, drawing enthusiastic cheers and applause from spectators along the route.
Carrying the shared aspirations of their teammates, the tasuki relay sash was passed smoothly from one runner to the next, vividly showcasing the strong solidarity of each group.

A participant running strongly during the race

A smooth tasuki handover showcasing excellent teamwork

Following a succession of competitive and hard-fought legs, the event concluded successfully.
Awards were presented across multiple categories, including overall team placements, individual segment awards, the top three finishers in both the men’s and women’s categories, and a special award for best tasuki design.
At the award ceremony, winners received certificates and commemorative gifts.
The event concluded with a comprehensive group photograph featuring all participants and staff members, filling the venue with smiles and a profound sense of shared accomplishment.

The award ceremony

The award ceremony

Commemorative group photograph

Rather than simply focussing on competitive speed, this event served as an excellent platform for employees to engage in meaningful communication and build cross-departmental relationships. Through sport, participants renewed their appreciation for the importance of teamwork and cooperation.
Moving forward, TZS and its corporate bases in China will continue to regularly hold various cultural and athletic exchange events.
Through these activities, the company aims to strengthen employee engagement, foster collaboration, and cultivate a more vibrant workplace culture.