Organized in conjunction with our chosen charity and local cycle tour company Noto DMC, an approximate 480km 4-day cycling tour in and around the Noto peninsula, for experienced road cyclists of sufficient abilities. The 2025 ride gives participants the opportunity to volunteer a little time to recovery efforts in Wajima, as well as enjoying the stunning scenery by bicycle. This event is NOT a race, simply a tour.
Why do many participants keep coming back? The camaraderie, the significant personal achievement, the views, and they meet the kids for whom they are raising funds,
Each rider must be able to devote time to train, and be physically ready for the challenge. Each day is at least 100kms, some of it flat, some mountainous.
Route
With approximately 40 or more participants, we split into smaller groups. The ride spans four challenging days. Approximate numbers (subject to change):
Day 1: 124kms, 1,400 meters elevation
Day 2: 132kms, 1,220 meters elevation
Day 3: 98kms, 1,355 meters elevation
Day 4: 130kms, 1,215 meters elevation
Is The KIWL Classic For You?
You don't have to be an elite cyclist. Less experienced cyclists can do it but they must commit to training in the months prior. It is a challenging endurance ride and not without risk due to riding in a group, adverse road conditions, weather, and other unforeseen circumstances. Although Noto DMC makes every effort to use quieter roads, you need to be comfortable with riding in traffic. Not all roads have been repaired in Noto.
Trip Costs & Your Commitment?
The KIWL Classic is an all-volunteer charity fundraising event. Within the trip costs, a ¥50,000 donation to our chosen charity is included. However, if you independently raise ¥50,000 or more in donations, this is waived. If you introduce corporate sponsors, the donation request is also waived. Overall cost including the ¥50,000 donation if you are unable to raise it independently, is about ¥175,000 (subject to change) if you choose to stay in Kanazawa at the end of the trip (less if you don't). This is a charity event which happens to be a bicycle ride, not vice versa! Participants are expected to prioritize fundraising and training.
Corporate sponsorships range from ¥200,000-¥1,500,000 with logos placed on cycling kit. A company can even sponsor a day of the ride with a dedicated jersey. Companies make a direct donation to our chosen charity, ensuring that it directly benefits kids in care.
Riders will gather in Kanazawa on the evening of Wednesday May 28th for an early start on Thursday 29th. Riders must arrange their own transportation to and from Kanazawa. The ride officially ends on Sunday June 1st with a welcome party including Mirai no Mori kids, and a celebratory dinner in Kanazawa before people can either return home, or stay the night.
How Can I Learn More?
There will be an information night on 22nd January 2025 from 7pm at Blink Community in Roppongi which will cover more details. If you are not quite ready to apply but wish to know more, please email us to reserve your place (seats are limited). KIWL Veterans also welcome!
How Can I Apply?
Applications are now open for the month of January 2025 (closing at 17.00 JST on January 31st). Click the link below to apply:
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