Series & First Appearance
Haiji Kiyose is a character from the anime Run with the Wind, which premiered in the Fall 2018 anime season. The series is based on the novel by Shion Miura, and the anime adaptation was produced by Production I.G. Haiji made his first appearance in Episode 1, "The Start of the Wind."
Profile at a Glance
Haiji Kiyose is a fourth-year literature student at Kansei University, appearing in his early twenties. He serves as the main protagonist and the driving force behind the university’s track and field team as they prepare for the Hakone Ekiden Marathon. His signature ability lies in his unyielding determination and the leadership skills he employs to rally his peers, compelling them to join the team under the guise of a living arrangement contract.
Personality & Motivations
Haiji is characterized by his relentless determination, charisma, and a deep sense of responsibility toward his teammates. He is passionate about running and deeply motivated to lead his team to the Hakone Ekiden Marathon, seeing it as a way to achieve personal fulfillment and foster camaraderie among his peers. Despite his strong exterior, he may exhibit a tendency to over-commit, placing immense pressure on himself and his teammates. Haiji often encourages those around him with phrases like “Keep running!” emphasizing perseverance and teamwork.
Abilities / Powers
Haiji’s standout abilities include his exceptional endurance and strategic thinking when it comes to running. He possesses strong leadership qualities, inspiring the other members of the team to push their physical and mental limits. Unlike other characters who may have inherent athletic gifts, Haiji’s evolution is marked by hard work and resilience rather than raw talent. Over the series, his physical abilities improve alongside his skills as a motivator and mentor, showcasing a multi-dimensional growth arc. However, as the series progresses, Haiji battles personal challenges, including injuries and the pressure of leadership, which test his resolve.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Haiji’s character development is intricately tied to key arcs throughout the series. Initially convinced he can rally his classmates for the marathon, he uses his persuasive charm to convince nine other students to move into Chikuseisou, the shared housing, effectively coercing them into joining the track team. Throughout the training montage and subsequent races, Haiji learns not only the importance of teamwork but also the need to balance ambition against personal health. A significant turning point occurs during several races leading up to the marathon, where Haiji must confront his own limitations and the consequences of his intense training regimen, ultimately finding a more collaborative and sustainable path forward.
Notable Relationships
- Kakeru Kurahara: Initially a reluctant runner, Kakeru becomes a key ally and rival to Haiji, representing a figure for growth and understanding what teamwork truly means.
- The Other Team Members: Haiji’s interactions with his team—each with unique backgrounds and motivations—underscore his mentorship and responsibility, developing into a community that builds on mutual support and trust.
- His Grandpa: Haiji’s motivations are partly drawn from his relationship with his grandfather, who also had a passion for running; this familial connection adds depth to his aspirations.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One notable moment occurs in Episode 6, when Haiji motivates Kakeru, pushing him to confront and overcome his self-doubt. His words, “You can’t do it if you don’t try!” echo the show’s central themes of perseverance. Another landmark scene appears when Haiji reveals the immense pressure he places on himself in Episode 12, culminating in an emotional moment that exemplifies his vulnerabilities and aspirations. These moments resonate with fans who appreciate the emotional weight and realism Haiji brings to athletic endeavors.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Haiji Kiyose was voiced by Yoshitsugu Matsuoka in the Japanese version, known for roles such as Kirito in Sword Art Online. In the English dub, he is voiced by Brian Beacock, adding a new layer to the character’s persona through localization. Haiji tends to rank favorably in character popularity polls, often due to his relatable struggles and inspirational leadership. The series itself received acclaim for its realistic portrayal of sports and complex character relationships, contributing significantly to Haiji’s impact within the narrative.
In summary, Haiji Kiyose serves as a compelling focal point in Run with the Wind, driving the plot and emblematic of the themes of resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of personal goals through the sport of running. Through his journey, viewers are invited to explore the intricacies of teamwork, motivation, and self-discovery.
