The 2nd interview: Dale Koo from Taiwan

Among the staff at ADRA Japan, there are individuals who have dedicated themselves to volunteering at the Tokyo Marathon for many years. However, the outbreak of the war between Russia and Ukraine on February 24, 2022, left them feeling disheartened and uncertain. Despite the heavy workload ahead, they deliberated whether to proceed with volunteering for the Tokyo Marathon 2023.

Ultimately, they made the decision to participate, and the experience proved to be rejuvenating. Witnessing runners advocating for peace with messages like “No War” revitalized their spirits, instilling a glimmer of hope. As they engaged with fellow volunteers, they found relief in sharing their thoughts and experiences.

This collective effort imbued their volunteer work with a newfound sense of purpose and fulfillment, surpassing their previous expectations.

Dale Koo, aged 40, has a diverse background, having been born in Taiwan, lived in Singapore and London, and now calling Australia home for the past 25 years. On the eve of tackling the Tokyo Marathon 2024, Mr. Koo opened up to ADRA staff, expressing his newfound appreciation for the work of NGOs. He shared his deep sense of honor in contributing to a charity dedicated to assisting those affected by adversity, particularly the vulnerable populations. Reflecting on his upbringing in various countries alongside his parents—an esteemed business consultant and asset management advisor—Mr. Koo emphasized the profound happiness derived from living in peaceful environments.

Regarding his preparation for 42.195 km race, Mr. Koo revealed his lifelong interest for physical activity, having been an active child with great abilities for running, swimming, and basketball. Despite initially grappling with the idea of long-distance running, he gradually embraced the challenge, gradually increasing his training regimen from twice a week to multiple sessions, totaling 7 to 8 km each day. Acknowledging the inherent pain of marathon running, Mr. Koo admitted to moments of doubt during his training sessions, yet found a fulfillment in the post-run sense of rejuvenation—an ineffable allure that continues to fuel his passion for the sport.

Tokyo Marathon 2024 marked Mr. Koo’s 15th full marathon, with aspirations to surpass his personal best time of 3 hours and 45 minutes. Throughout the event, his infectious optimism shone brightly as he traversed the course with a shining smile, embodying the spirit of perseverance and resilience.

Moreover, Mr. Koo displayed a profound understanding and appreciation for ADRA’s humanitarian efforts, fostering a heartwarming connection with the aid assistance activities conducted by the organization.

read in Japanese https://www.adrajpn.org/tokyo-marathon/7540/