Editor M’s first-time participation, what to do? #6
“Inexperienced rider at the Honolulu Century Ride 2023”

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I don’t know what constitutes “enough,” but it’s clear that my training is far from sufficient as I depart Tokyo. I’ve at least got my helmet and jersey…

I’ve arrived in Honolulu. My first time in Hawaii 🌈 Even the Starbucks at the airport feels liberating 🌞 As I head towards Waikiki on the highway, I catch a glimpse of Diamond Head. Is this Hawaii… ✨ Despite battling deadlines of work during the drive, I gradually begin to feel the paradise vibes. Lush, vibrant plant life everywhere, it’s dazzling.

The banyan tree (baobab) guarding Waikiki Beach.

There are three days left until the event on 9/24. I have work (the reason for my trip to the United States) during that time, but my mental state seems to be in good shape.

With some peace of mind, I asked the staff accompanying me to show me shopping spots and more. I’m more interested in groceries than luxury brands, so we went to a supermarket. We stopped by “Wikiki Marker,” which is newly opened near the hotel. When you think of Hawaiian souvenirs, Hawaiian Host chocolates with their distinctive packaging come to mind, but the regulars here told me about coconut-flavored popcorn and honey. For breakfast, I got a kale salad and pineapple from the deli. I’m savoring the deliciousness of vegetables and fruits.

The natural magenta of the dragon fruit is dazzling.
Authentic spam musubi.

I suddenly remembered a conversation with a friend before departure.

“You know, I’m not confident about riding 80 kilometers. I might end up just eating spam musubi at the rest stops, and it’ll turn into a gourmet trip, haha.”

“Don’t want to see that, Mayumi.”

!!!

I eagerly returned to my room and started my workout routine, focusing on hamstring exercises. I’ve been doing various types of training, including the Wall Pilates that’s been appearing in Instagram ads a lot lately, for about three weeks. I only do these exercises in the morning and evening, but I feel like my lower back mobility has improved (although it might be a placebo effect). While I have a decent level of basic fitness, I’m not confident in continuously using the same muscle groups for an extended period. The dedication of athletes is truly admirable.

As I continued with my exercises, I realized there were only two days left until the event. I wonder how it will turn out…

This is Hawaii! Under the clear and crisp blue sky.

To be continued…

Text_ Mayumi Kamura

🚴‍♂️Editor M’s first-time participation, what to do? series🚴‍♂️

#01 Road to Nowhere
#02 Under Pressure
#03 One Fine Day
#04 No women , No cry
#05 Here Comes the Sun
#06 Kaimana Hila
#07 ANOTHER WORLD
#08 Bonus episode : An Accident as Expected

Profile

Mayumi Kamura
I’m a Global Ride editor. My expertise lies in visual expressions like design, art, fashion, and more. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted me to focus on my physical and mental health. I started playing tennis and resumed taking contemporary dance lessons. Considering that bicycle-related accessories often boast high design quality, I have a feeling I might become a fan during this experience.

CULTURE
Circle of Cycling Friends Ring-Tomo!
#06 Miho Ishigaki

Connecting people who enjoy rides.  This time, we introduce Miho Ishigaki, a model, through Akikazu Yamashita, a model and travel writer. While working as a model for sports magazines, she also participates in ride events and teaches at the gym as an instructor. During her time as a fashion model, she developed an interest in cycling as a gentle sport she could engage in, and a few years later, she won first place in the Fuji Azami Line Hill Climb. We talked to her about her experiences with riding. Table of Contents  Profile 1. What’s your beloved bicycle? 2. What’s your favorite cycling route? 3. The most recent ride event you participated in and your thoughts about it? […]

#RingTomo
TRIP&TRAVEL
Through the Heart of Hokkaido:
Furano & BieiCycling with the Tokachi Mountain Range and Local Gourmet Delights

As spring approaches in Hokkaido, why not set out on a ride from Asahikawa through the rolling hills of Biei to Furano? With the majestic Tokachi Mountain Range as your backdrop, this cycling route takes you past expansive fields and flower farms, with stops at popular sights along the way. It’s a luxurious experience where ever-changing landscapes and local food culture can be enjoyed all at once. Visit iconic spots such as the Seven Stars Tree and Shikisai no Oka, sample regional sweets en route, and make your way toward the final destination of Furano. This is a ride that fully immerses you in both the scenery and flavors of Hokkaido—an ideal way to experience the region by bike. Table of […]

#Furano
EVENT
A Refreshing 100-Mile Ride Through the Green Foothills of the Japanese Alps
— Azumino Century Ride 2026 (Part 1) —

On May 23, I took part in the Alps Azumino Century Ride (AACR), one of Japan’s most popular cycling events. Among the several course options, I chose the Cycle Train Route—a 120 km course that includes approximately 65 km of riding, with the remainder covered by train. As its name suggests, the AACR was inspired by the Honolulu Century Ride. After experiencing the event firsthand, Executive Committee Chair Raita Suzuki—a former Japanese Olympic mountain biker who represented Japan at the Sydney Olympics—returned home determined to create a similar event in his native Nagano. Since 2009, that vision has continued to grow into one of Japan’s premier fun rides. In addition to the cl […]

#Nagano