Barnston West runner Perry MacKinnon to represent Ivy League at Japan’s Izumo Ekiden
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Townships-born Perry MacKinnon is set to participate in the prestigious Izumo Ekiden relay race in Japan, an annual event known for its high-speed format and rich history, which dates back over 100 years. Although MacKinnon, an Ivy League alumnus, will not be running due to a recent injury, he remains an integral part of the team as they prepare to compete on Oct. 10.
Growing up in the rural community of Barnston West, near Coaticook, MacKinnon’s running journey began during his high school years, where his natural talent quickly became evident. “I was winning races and setting course records with no training,” he recalls. His interest grew from there, leading him to train more rigorously and eventually compete at the university level.
MacKinnon’s academic path took him to Cornell University, where he earned his undergraduate degree. During his time there, he set school records in the 5,000-metre and 10,000-metre events, with impressive times of 13:33 and 28:33, respectively. His running prowess earned him several accolades, including five podium finishes in the Ivy League and three appearances at the NCAA National Championships. His most recent achievement was being named an All-American in cross-country after finishing 19th at last year’s national championships.
Currently pursuing a master’s degree at Syracuse University, MacKinnon had initially planned a different trajectory for the fall. “Originally, I wanted to race a half marathon,” he explained. However, the chance to represent the Ivy League in the Izumo Ekiden was too significant to pass up. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” MacKinnon said. “I can always run a half marathon later, but this experience is rare and exclusive.”
The Izumo Ekiden, which marks the start of the Japanese university relay season, is one of the three major university ekiden races in Japan. It spans six legs, covering a total distance equivalent to a marathon. While university-age students from across Japan typically compete, the Ivy League team is the only foreign team invited to participate, a tradition that began in the 1990s.
MacKinnon explained that despite his injury, which prevents him from running, the organizers insisted on him attending. “They put a lot of importance on having a full team of eight, even though only six people actually race,” he said. “It’s symbolic for them.” His injury, a case of tendonitis in his foot, emerged late in the season, too close to the race to cancel his trip. While disappointed not to compete, MacKinnon is still excited about the opportunity to travel and be part of the team.
