Run with the Wind

Kakeru is introduced as a former high school running prodigy who now finds himself on the run after a food theft accusation. A chance intervention from Haiji Kiyose, a Kansei University runner with a stubborn confidence, changes the course of his life. Haiji invites Kakeru to move into the aging dormitory Chikuseisou, where a bold plan begins to take shape: form a real relay team and race Hakone Ekiden, one of Japan's most famous university events. What starts as a tough sell gradually reveals a bigger test than speed alone. The other residents also join in, but they are mostly newcomers to serious training. Only Haiji and Kakeru carry the experience segment, and the rest must learn the discipline, trust, and rhythm of long distance running.

The series, released in 2018, is created by Kohei Kiyasu and sits within the anime sphere as a mix of drama and comedy. The main voices include Takeo Otsuka as Kakeru, Toshiyuki Toyonaga as Haiji, Miyu Irino as Akane Kashiwazaki, Hideaki Kabumoto as Musa Kamala, and Takanori Hoshino as Akihiro Hirata.

Set around a dormitory crew who are more dreamers than seasoned athletes, the show turns Hakone Ekiden into a canvas for friendship and growth. Its emphasis on an unlikely team resonates with sports anime fans, illustrating how shared goals can spark courage and camaraderie even for novices.

Critics and viewers alike have praised the balance of humor and heart, the measured pacing of training montages, and the emphasis on mentorship. The narrative threads themes of resilience and ambition, exploring how lingering pride from past triumphs interacts with a fresh motive to succeed as a group.

Awards: While the show earned a warm reception for its animation and character work, there are no major awards or nominations listed in the data provided, suggesting its strength lies in storytelling and cast chemistry rather than accolades.