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.

TRIP&TRAVEL
Ring Ring Road ride report (1)
Enjoy the travel atmosphere in 45 minutes from Ueno Station.
Tsuchiura, a rider-friendly town, with a 110-km round trip around Lake Kasumigaura.

With the spread of the new coronavirus, cycle events around the world have been canceled, including the 2020 Bike New York and Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle Challenges, which have now been unavoidably cancelled. On the other hand, many of us may have become more closely connected to bicycles in our daily lives, such as commuting by bicycle or taking up indoor cycling. Still, we are not the only ones who would still like to “travel by bicycle”…! It is also true that it is still difficult to travel long distances. So, we asked ourselves, “Where are some rides that are close and easy to get to, but still allow us to fully enjoy the feeling of traveling?” Here is what we came up with.

#Lifestyle
FEATURE TRIP&TRAVEL
Oahu is ten times more enjoyable by bicycle.

This is Daisaku Kawase, Global Ride’s Communication Director, currently staying on Oahu as the Honolulu Century Ride (HCR) approaches once again this year. Oahu, the host island of the event, offers so much more than just Waikiki — it’s home to many charming and vibrant neighborhoods. If you’ve made it all the way to Hawaii, it would be a shame not to explore beyond the usual spots! I highly recommend Kailua, located on Oahu’s eastern coast. It’s about 40 kilometers from Waikiki if you follow the scenic coastal route. Kailua is home to the second aid station of the HCR and holds strong ties to former President Obama. It’s also a charming beach town filled with stylish shops. Whil […]

#Ride
FEATURE TRIP&TRAVEL
Honolulu is ten times more enjoyable by bicycle.

The Honolulu Century Ride (HCR) is just around the corner again this year! The 100 mile (160 km) course, filled with ups and downs, is an absolute thrill. But since you’re already in Honolulu, you’ll want to make the most of the city as well, right? That’s why I suggest exploring the city by bicycle. A light 10 km ride will help shake off the fatigue from the long flight, allow you to get used to riding on the right side of the road, and help you feel more confident heading into the HCR. Even if you’re just visiting Hawaii for sightseeing, there’s more to the city than Waikiki and Ala Moana Center. By hopping on a bike, you can enjoy the real Honolulu. Share bikes, which ar […]

#Chari Tabi