Hawaii, the ultimate place to ride on Earth.
This time, I am convinced.
The Honolulu Century Ride (HCR) is the best ride on Earth.
This is my second time riding in Hawaii, following last year. I’ve been pondering how I should be involved as the Communication Director of Global Ride (GR). Last year, I was so focused on completing the 160 km ride that I just gave it my all. It was my first time riding a road bike overseas, and everything felt exciting.
However, this year was my second time. I didn’t expect to feel the same excitement as before. So I intentionally decided not to view the event from a rider’s perspective. Instead, I planned to ride in the GR editorial team’s car and focus on capturing photos of the HCR and the breathtaking scenery along the ride.
But on the day of the event, I found myself pedaling through the pouring rain, filled with an overwhelming sense of joy that made every cell in my body tingle.
Hawaii, you’re truly incredible.
I never imagined I could experience such awe on my second time.
The majestic landscapes formed by volcanoes, Hawaii’s unique climate, and its kind-hearted people—all of these create a one-of-a-kind riding experience you can’t find anywhere else.
The excitement begins even before the start.
A little after 5 a.m. on the day of the event, riders from all over the world gather at Kapiolani Park. Their faces are filled with anticipation for the ride that’s about to begin. The dry Waikiki breeze gently blows through the park. What a blissful scene. Even though I had decided not to ride this time, I started to feel the excitement building, and my body was itching to get on the bike.
and the riders’ silhouettes are beautiful.
A commemorative photo taken in the morning glow.
is nature’s finest entertainment on display.
The rising sun bathes the sea, the mountains, and the riders in golden light. In this setting, only the sound of pedaling and tires gliding over the asphalt can be heard. I believe that the first 25 kilometers of the HCR, which starts at sunrise, are the most beautiful.
There are two lookouts where you can enjoy breathtaking views: Diamond Head and Makapuʻu Point.
At the Diamond Head Lookout, you can gaze at the incredibly beautiful sea that changes dramatically as the sun rises.
At the 20-kilometer mark, the first aid station, Sandy Beach, provides a place for many riders to rest their legs while basking in the morning sun rising from the sea.
From there, after about 4 kilometers of climbing, you’ll reach the lookout at Makapuʻu Point. Here, you can enjoy stunning views of the blue sea dotted with Rabbit Island, which resembles a rabbit, and the strikingly steep mountains that give you a chill. This is one of the HCR’s most scenic spots.
I believe that the essence of long rides lies in the feeling of immersing yourself in the grandeur of nature, relying solely on your own strength.
I have ridden my bike in various places across Japan and in New York. However, I know of no other place where such a succession of beautiful landscapes can be experienced.
gazing at Rabbit Island.
with steep mountains and a gradient sea,
is stunningly beautiful—enough to make your soul tremble.
As I traveled by car from the start, watching the riders moving through the beautiful scenery, a thought began to bubble up within me.
“I want to ride too.”
My Brompton has four gears and isn’t well-suited for steep climbs. However, the road ahead should be flat. The distance to the next aid station is only 15 kilometers.
When I mentioned this to the other crew members, they agreed that capturing HCR from the bike wouldn’t be a bad idea. So, I decided to act quickly.
I parked the car, assembled my Brompton, and set off.
The charming streets of Hawaii flowed by in a blur. I could feel excitement filling my entire body. The pedals felt light. Ah, this is amazing. Riding is not something to just watch; it’s something to experience together.
As I entered the Wainamalo area, known for its jungle roads, it began to drizzle lightly. In fact, it often rains in Hawaii in the form of sudden downpours.
If this continues, it could become a problem.
I want to avoid getting completely soaked in my T-shirt and shorts.
Despite my concerns, the rain grew stronger and quickly turned into a downpour. My camera, which I was carrying in a sling, got completely soaked. This was the worst.
However, once I was drenched beyond recovery, I began to find it increasingly enjoyable. Other riders, caught in the heavy rain, were filled with excitement and started shouting loudly.
Yes, riding is an adventure. A downpour is welcome! My camera is dust- and water-resistant, so it should be fine even if it gets a little wet.
The rain stopped after about ten minutes, and blue skies spread above. A refreshing breeze blew through. My T-shirt was soaked, but thanks to the pleasant wind, I didn’t feel uncomfortable.
At the third aid station, I reunited with the crew. I had set off without carrying any bottles, and my throat was parched. I gulped down three cups of water in quick succession.
“You’re drenched. How about riding for another segment to dry off?”
Editor Kamura suggested. I see. That’s a good idea. My body was warming up, and I still wanted to ride more. Plus, even if I took photos from the car, they would only provide an objective view. To convey the excitement of the ride to GR’s readers, I needed to get back on the bike.
So, I decided to ride to the turnaround point of the 100-mile course.
these hill climbs are also the true essence of the HCR.
playing upbeat rock music from the Rolling Stones, Neil Young, Hall & Oates, and others.
This final stretch, with its ocean views, feels like a reward for all the effort so far.
Riding through the drizzle while glancing at the rough sea,
I can truly feel the power of nature up close.
In the end, I completed the ride to the 100-mile turnaround point.
In the last 10 kilometers, it rained again, soaking my T-shirt once more. But by then, I didn’t mind at all; I felt completely refreshed.
I could have kept riding, but this was more than enough for this year.
At the aid station, I gulped down water and devoured three rice balls.
GR’s Chief Editor Imamura kindly lent me a fresh T-shirt. Putting on the crisp, dry shirt helped calm my excitement from the ride.
I folded up my Brompton and loaded it into the car.
Now, it’s time to head back to Kapiolani Park.
We headed back to Kapiolani Park by car.
By the time we arrived, many riders had already finished.
Their faces were filled with a sense of accomplishment.
Seeing them shine with pride, I couldn’t help but feel a bit envious.
The Honolulu Century Ride is the greatest ride on Earth.
This second time confirmed that for me.
And I’m sure that on the third, there will be a new kind of joy.
If I can return here next year, I want to ride the full 160 kilometers again.
Because that’s the best way to truly enjoy Hawaii’s grandeur.
Text & Photo＿Daisaku Kawase
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#02 Bike transport: It’s Always a Dilemma (Part 2)
#03 Hawaii was incredibly Hawaii
#04 First Hawaii Ride – Test Run Episode
#05 Ride! Honolulu Century Ride !
Profile
Daisaku Kawase
He is a Free Producer, the Representative of Days Co., Ltd, Global Ride Communication Director.
Born in Aichi Prefecture. With 16 years of road cycling experience, he loves scenic rides. He squeezes in rides between work and travels all over Japan with his bike. His beloved bike is a Trek. After working as a producer on programs like “Ariyoshi no Okane Hakken Totsugeki! Kaneo-kun,” “Oyasumi Japan Nemuiine,” and “Asaichi” at NHK, he became independent in 2022. In addition to producing programs, he also handles project production for government and corporate clients.