With Adventure Race Japan (ARJ) 2025 fast approaching, leading international seafarers’ welfare charity The Mission to Seafarers (MtS), is calling on the global maritime community to rally once again for seafarers' welfare.
Backed by Mitsui O.S.K Lines (MOL) as leading Platinum Sponsor - an upgrade from Gold in 2023 – the event is also supported by Gold Sponsors Swire Shipping, Swire Bulk, NYK, NorthStandard, Shoei Kisen Kaisha Ltd, Arrow Chartering and APM Terminals, amoung others, already raising US$438K.
The second edition of this highly anticipated event will take place from 15th to 18th May 2025 on Japan’s stunning Izu Peninsula, a designated UNESCO Geopark, offering participants breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.
Following the phenomenal success of the inaugural Adventure Race Japan in 2023, which saw 64 teams from 19 countries raise an impressive US$1.3 million, preparations are underway for an even bigger and better experience in 2025.
About the race
Teams of three will take on a two-day challenge: one day of hiking or running, followed by a second day of ‘rogaining’ orienteering, with trails designed to challenge participants of varying fitness levels. Responding to feedback from 2023, participants can look forward to experiencing more of Japan’s authentic culture and landscapes. But this event is more than just a race; it’s a unique opportunity for key decision-makers in the maritime industry to come together and build lasting relationships, enhance business objectives, and most importantly, support seafarer welfare.
ARJ 2025 offers two levels of participation: the Green Dragon Race, ideal for participants seeking an energetic but scenic hike, and the Black Dragon Race for those looking for a more rigorous physical challenge with extended runs and increased elevation. This format ensures all participants, regardless of fitness level, can experience the thrill of the race while making a tangible difference.
Registration is now open, and teams are encouraged to sign up early. To date, 24 teams have already registered, including prominent industry names like NorthStandard, Swire Shipping, Gard, Norstar, Solis Marine Consultants, WISTA Singapore, Andrew Moore & Associates, American P&I Club, ISC Corporation, ASP Ships Group, Marsh, Japan Maritime Daily, BLU Maritime Consultancy, and BW Epic Kosan, demonstrating the industry’s commitment to seafarer welfare.
Why support?
As one of the largest providers of seafarers’ welfare support, MtS designed this race to offer the international shipping community a way to increase awareness and raise funds for our vital frontline work. The funds raised will also support MtS’ ‘Emerging Port Strategy 2022-2026’, focusing on expanding and enhancing operations in Asia and globally, including new welfare hubs and critical family support networks in the Philippines and India.
With space for 100 teams and networking opportunities built into the event, including three evening dinners and a gala on the final night at the Marriott Hotel in Shunzenji, Izu, participants will experience intense competition within a vibrant atmosphere of camaraderie and support.
The unwavering commitment from sponsors has been instrumental in driving the success of this event and supporting our vital work. In the spirit of continued support, we also thank our dedicated ARJ Committee – Tom Bonehill and Ken Hasui – Norstar Shippping, Jeremy Sutton and Bed Hadfield – SwireShipping, Chris Eve – Informa, Maki Yoshida – Star Marine, and Sakura Kuma. Without this team the event wouldn’t have been able to happen.
Jan Webber, Director of Development, Mission to Seafarers, said:
“The Adventure Race Japan is more than just a race - it’s a celebration of the maritime community’s commitment to the welfare of seafarers. We are proud to build on the success of 2023 and look forward to welcoming even more participants in 2025. With the support of our sponsors and participants, we aim to exceed our fundraising target and continue our vital work supporting seafarers around the world.”
Takeshi Hashimoto, President & CEO, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd., said: “Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is honoured to have the opportunity to support The Mission to Seafarers’ Adventure Race Japan 2025 as a Platinum Sponsor. Ensuring that the seafarers responsible for safe operation, which is the foundation of our business, can play active roles in the workplace is one of the MOL Group’s key initiatives in sustainability management. So, we agree with MtS’ philosophy of working to improve the welfare of seafarers around the world. I hope that all the race participants will enjoy the natural beauty of Japan.”
Photo: Participants preparing to start the race in the ARJ 2023
