Translation guide
A footrace is a running competition. In Japanese, the most common and natural way to express this depends on the context: a general race is 競走 (kyōsō), while a sprint or dash is 徒競走 (tokyōsō) or かけっこ (kakekko). For longer distances, マラソン (marason) is used. The word フットレース (futtorēsu) exists but is rare.
To refer to a footrace as a competitive running event in general.
General term for a running race. Often used in compound words like 競走馬 (racehorse) or 競走場 (racetrack).
He won the 100-meter footrace.
Specifically a footrace, often used for school sports day events. Emphasizes running on foot as opposed to other types of races.
I came first in the footrace at the sports day.
Loanword from English, but rarely used. May be understood in some contexts but sounds unnatural.
Avoid using this; it's not common Japanese.
I participated in a footrace.
To talk about a short, informal running race, especially among children.
Casual term for a running race, often used by children. Implies a short distance and friendly competition.
I had a footrace with my friends after school.
Also used for short races, but more formal than かけっこ. Common in school contexts.
To refer to a footrace over a long distance, such as a marathon.
To talk about a footrace as an organized event, often with a specific name.
競走 is the most general term for a running race and can be used in formal contexts. 徒競走 specifically emphasizes running on foot and is common in school sports days. かけっこ is a casual, child-friendly term for a short sprint or dash.
The direct loanword フットレース is rarely used and sounds unnatural. Use 競走 or 徒競走 instead.
The first graders' footrace is 50 meters.
彼と競争して勝った。
I raced him and won.