Athlete of the Month Dec 23: Masaki “Maza” Mibayashi
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In the realm of athletic achievements, some stories stand out not just for their physical feats but for the incredible resilience and determination that accompanies them. This December, we proudly feature Masaki “Maza” Mibayashi as our Athlete of the Month, a runner whose journey from battling mental health issues to conquering marathons is nothing short of extraordinary.
Masaki’s story begins when he arrived in the United States as a scientist, seeking a fresh start. However, his struggle with depression persisted, leading him through various treatments and hospitalizations. Despite facing significant challenges, Masaki refused to succumb to despair. His path to recovery took an unexpected turn when, on December 31, 2013, he decided to make a change, joining a gym and embracing a new workout routine.
What started as a resolution soon evolved into a passion for running, outdoor activities, and overall fitness. Masaki’s journey into the running world took a significant turn when he participated in the NYRR Gridiron 4M race in February 2015. Little did he know that this race would mark the beginning of a remarkable marathon journey that would redefine his life.
Masaki’s marathon achievements speak volumes about his dedication and perseverance. From his first NYC Marathon in 2015 to steadily improving times in subsequent years, Masaki’s determination to excel became evident. However, his ultimate goal was to qualify for the prestigious Boston Marathon, a dream he thought might be slipping away with each passing year.
Undeterred by setbacks in 2019 and 2021, Masaki continued to push himself. Running over 3000 miles in those years, he faced disappointments but never gave up. The turning point came in the NYCRUNS Brooklyn Marathon 2022, where Masaki finished in 3:06, securing his first Boston Marathon qualification just before turning 50—an unforgettable triumph.
The Boston Marathon in 2023 became a platform for Masaki to push his limits further. Setting a goal to run faster than his Brooklyn Marathon time, Masaki not only achieved this but finished Boston in an impressive 3:01. The dream of a sub 3 marathon was no longer just a dream—it was within reach.
As if that weren’t enough, Masaki was invited to compete in the Abbott World Marathon Majors Age Group World Championships at the Chicago Marathon. Despite facing injuries during training, he committed to his goal of a sub 3 marathon and finished the Chicago Marathon in 2:57. A testament to his grit, Masaki had conquered yet another milestone.
What makes Masaki’s story even more inspiring is the fact that these achievements unfolded in his 50s, challenging the notion that athletic success is reserved for the young. A self-made athlete, Masaki emphasizes that his accomplishments were born from effort, endurance, and perseverance rather than innate talent.
Beyond the physical accomplishments, Masaki proudly shares that his commitment to physical exercise played a pivotal role in overcoming his mental health struggles. After 1.5-2 years of consistent exercise, he successfully ceased medication, marking a significant victory in his personal and athletic journey.
Masaki “Maza” Mibayashi’s story is a testament to the transformative power of sport, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of an athlete. As we celebrate Masaki as our Athlete of the Month for December, we are not only acknowledging his incredible marathon achievements but also honoring his courage in confronting and conquering mental health challenges. We look forward to witnessing Masaki’s continued success as he sets his sights on achieving sub 3 marathons in Boston and NYC in 2024, proving that age is just a number, and dreams have no expiration date. Masaki Mibayashi, your journey inspires us all!
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