Athlete Bios

Sakiko Minagawa

Women's Marathon

Qualifying Time: 2:35:52
Qualifying Race: 2023 California International Marathon

Sakiko Minagawa
Date of Birth

08/23/94

Age on Race Day

29

Current Residence

Westerville, OH

Hometown

Dublin, OH

High School

Dublin Scioto High School

Current Affiliation

Columbus Running Company

Profession

Registered Dietitian at Nationwide Children's Hospital division of Sports Medicine

Marathon PB

2:35:52

Social Media
First Trials qualification

No

Previous Trials

2020

Number of attempts to qualify

1

College(s)

The Ohio State University

Career Highlights
2020 and 2024 Olympic Trials Marathon qualifier; Winner, 2021 Columbus Marathon
Family
My parents, Akira and Sumiko Minagawa, are both Japanese immigrants. I was born and raised in the U.S. I have an older brother, an identical twin sister and a younger sister. My twin sister, Minori is my best friend and also one of my biggest supporters. She is a professional triathlete and cyclist.
Greatest Accomplishment
There are so many things I’m grateful for and proud of. In general, I try to recognize and appreciate the journey, both the tough times and good times that make me who I am now. For me, accomplishments are most meaningful when I can share my journey and experiences with others.
Interesting Story
In September 2022, I developed a sacral fracture and had a long journey to recovery. Getting through the injury - not just the physical injury but also the emotional pain, uncertainty and self-pressure - was not easy. I learned to trust a new way of training, incorporating cross-training on the elliptical and strength training, and slowly built up my endurance and strength. I signed up for the 2023 California International Marathon with the thought that no matter what the outcome, I’m going to give my very best. I am most proud of not giving up during the race when it got tough and qualifying for the 2024 Olympic Trials by running more than 5 minutes better than my personal best.
Favorite Book

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown

Favorite Breakfast

Eggs and avocado toast!

Favorite Running Memory
My favorite running memory is running with my twin sister, Minori Minagawa, at the 2021 Columbus Marathon, where she ran the half marathon and I ran the full marathon. As I sprinted toward the finish line to win the race, Minori was waiting for me and I was able to run straight to her and give her a big hug!