Sudden events led me to participate in the Honolulu Century Ride (HCR) in Hawaii, which takes place in September. I brought my road bike with me, and this is my first experience riding abroad. So far, I’ve written about the bike transportation from Japan and my initial impressions upon arriving in Hawaii. Now, let’s dive into the exciting part – my first ride in Hawaii!

On the morning of September 27—the day before the 2025 Honolulu Century Ride—Ala Moana Park lay beneath a beautifully clear blue sky and gentle sunlight. But instead of cyclists astride their bikes, it was dignified figures mounted on splendid horses who waited on the park’s lawn. The horses, like the people gathered around them, were adorned with flowers in a riot of colors. At 9:00 a.m., the perfectly synchronized drums of a marching band echoed through the air, drawing cheers from the assembled crowd. This was the Floral Parade, an event that began in 1946 and marked its 77th edition in 2025. Celebrating Hawaiian culture, fostering its transmission to younger generations, and sharing its […]

An Extraordinary Experience: Racing Through Manhattan The “FIVE BORO BIKE TOUR,” commonly known as Bike New York, is held every May in New York City. It’s the largest event of its kind in the Northern Hemisphere, drawing cycling enthusiasts from around the world. About 30,000 people gathered with smiles on their faces, and of course, I was one of them. I wondered what kinds of bicycles everyone would be riding and what sights I would see as the morning of the event arrived. Around 5:30 a.m., in the dim light, I first rented a bicycle. They helped me choose a bike that fit my size and even adjusted the saddle, giving me a sense of security right from the start. It’s am […]