Samurai Challenge: The Amazing Samurai Race at Yokota Air Base

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Julian Williams briefs competitors during the monthly Samurai Challenge.

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Julian Williams, 374th Communications Squadron data operations NCOIC and event coordinator, briefs competitors during the monthly Samurai Challenge at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Jan. 22, 2026. Several teams of Airmen from the 374th Medical Group, 374th Wing Support Staff, Civil Engineering Squadron and Force Support Squadron ran across the installation, participating in five different exercises and activities. (Senior Airman Jacob Wood/U.S. Air Force)

The Samurai Challenge is a monthly event held to boost unit camaraderie and encourage friendly competition between servicemembers. Several teams of Airmen from the 374th Medical Group, 374th Wing Support Staff, Civil Engineering Squadron and Force Support Squadron ran across the installation, participating in five different exercises and activities. Each activity focused on physical conditioning, communication, problem-solving and teamwork.

Yokota Air Base