NISEKO NEWS
The “Niseko Classic”, Hokkaido’s largest cycling event, kicked off on 17 June in Kutchan.
Unlike 2021, the borders were open and more than twice as many foreigners participated than a year ago.
The opening day event was a 14.2km time trial at the base of Mt. Yotei, which also serves as a qualifying round for the coming World Championships in England this August.
Japan’s Yuko Matsuhima won the women’s age 19-34 division, one of about 120 athletes participating.
The next and final day, 18 June, saw over 950 athletes participating in the main road race – which also is a qualifying round for the World Championships – winding through Kutchan, Kyowa, Rankoshi and Niseko.
The race consisted of two divisions, 85km and 150km, the latter being a hilly mountain course beginning and ending at Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Ski Resort.
Makuta Ryo won the 150km race for the men’s age 40-44 cohort.
The first Niseko Classic was held in 2014.
Sources:
The Hokkaido Shimbun – 17 June 2023
The Hokkaido Shimbun – 18 June 2023
Image:
Niseko Classic (article thumbnail)
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