Tyrannosaurus rex, commonly known as T-rex, was one of the largest and most fearsome carnivorous dinosaurs in history. With its massive body, sharp teeth, and powerful jaws, the T. rex is the largest member of a group of theropod dinosaurs. In recent years, events featuring contestants in dinosaur costumes have gained significant popularity.

Believed to have originated in the United States, the T-Rex costume race trend has now gained popularity in Japan as well. These quirky and hilarious races feature participants in inflatable dinosaur costumes. The Tyrannosaurus rex became popular both online and offline, attracting a large audience. In March this year, a video of an incredible race of T Rexes went viral online.
Initially posted by USA Today, the clip was further reshared by many social media users. The video shows more than 500 people taking part in the T-rex race held in Funabashi, Japan, while wearing dinosaur costumes. “May the best T. rex win! Hundreds of people dressed as Tyrannosaurus raced in Japan," read the caption.

As soon as the video was shared, users quickly filled the comments section with their thoughts. A user simply wrote, “Love this," while another said, “Hilarious." “I love how the heads fall backwards, making them look extra desperate," read another comment. A user posted, “Either I’m going to Japan, or I’m hoping to race this here in Curitiba-Parana-Brazil."

“Made me laugh so hard," another social media user said.

According to Oddity Central, the T-rex costume race is said to have started in 2019 at the Emerald Downs racetrack in Auburn, Washington. Scores of individuals ran in inflated T-rex suits that created a viral sensation. Japan’s version kicked off in April 2022 with the inaugural official Tyrannosaurus Race Daisen in Daisen, Tottori Prefecture.

Its success created a nationwide trend, with more than 40 similar events taking place across the country subsequently. It further mentioned that the first T-Rex costume race went viral during the period when Japan was grappling with strict lockdowns. After the success, cities across Japan began organising their events, which led to a surge in inflatable dinosaur costume sales.