Chapter 3: Embarking on the Dream Express

The Japanese Derby.

How cruel that the race with the greatest history, tradition, and renown can only be entered once in a runner's life.

Many famed racers have suffered defeat in the face of their dream, the dream of every Umamusume, to reach the pinnacle of racing and become Derby champion.

On that day, an astounding 200,000 fans watched as the gates opened.

In the Derby, it's no easy feat to take an early lead and keep it. But the runner in pink insisted on doing it her own way.

What unfolded was not a race to outrun the rest. It was a high-speed war of attrition.

She'd barely shaken off her opponents when she crossed the finish line. Her body exhausted, she hadn't the energy left for one more step.

Her only way to win was to put every ounce of her being into it.

The champion's name was Ines Fujin.

The roaring applause that echoed throughout the racecourse in Fuchu that day still resounds in the mind of every fan.

It's the final straight! Which racer has what it takes to stand victorious?!

You can do iiit!

Wooow! They're all so fast!

The leader has a burst of speed! Now, the runner in second place advances from the opposite side of the pack!

Ah! The girl in front is gonna lose the lead!

And she takes the lead! Just like that, she pushes ahead! She widens the gap between herself and her rival!

Oh no, I feel so bad for her...

Look, she hasn't given up yet. So you shouldn't give up either. Why don't you keep cheering her on?

Sob... You can do it! Keep going!

She's going all the way! There's the finish! She bested her rivals, taking the crown in a stunning victory!

Awww, she lost... She's crying...

Yes, it's sad after she ran so well. But look, the winner's crying too.

You're right... Why?

The Derby is the dream of every one of these racers.

So whether they win or lose, they'll cry. Because they gave it their very all to make their dream come true. They worked so hard for this.

Dream... Derby...

All right! Landed a cabbage supplier!

Cabbage? What are you talking about?

The Solefall Faire, you ding-dong! I've been planning to sell my special Golshi yakisoba there since forever ago!

And I need you and our trusty trainer to pitch in. You'd better start practicing your griddle skills.

I don't like the sound of this at all... I'll have you taste it first, Trainer. Someone needs to check if it's safe.

Don't worry your pretty face. I'm not gonna use anything inedible. Just cabbage, carrots, wasabi paste, grated wasabi, and diced wasabi.

How much wasabi are you using?!

There you are.

I have big news. ♪ Your predecessor is being given an award by the URA.

An award? For what? Getting a kitten out of a tree?

Don't you know? It's an honor given to racers and trainers who've made outstanding achievements.

Some make it their mission to get it. Winners get their photo and race record displayed in the Umamusume Museum at the Tokyo Racecourse.

And who more fitting than him? Oguri's final race is still a favorite among fans.

The awards ceremony will be broadcast live, so don't miss it!

In other matters, I have a small favor to ask...

Waaaaah! I'm gonna CRY!

No matter how many defeats or injuries, she kept on running. This racer had SO much heart. Sob...

Ah! Are you the trainer Ms. Tazuna was talking about? Thank goodneeess! Finally some help! I'm SAVED!

Wait... I didn't introduce myself! Nice to meet ya! I'm Winning Ticket!

Really though, I volunteered 'cause I had this rad idea, but now that I'm in the thick of prepping, I can't manage at all.

Straight to the point! I need to make displays for a Derby history exhibit!

We're gonna display it all! The passion and excitement of each and every racer who took on the Derby, with no details left out!

Like this racer who sprinted into first place from way outside! After all the hard work it took to reach the Derby, it's like she knew that was her moment!

And this one, she took a huge lead right from the start, kept it all the way to the end and took first! It's super hard to pull off a win like that, but she knew she could do it. Sob...

The Derby really is the best! Yeeeah! I wanna be Derby champiooon!

Thanks for staying so late! When it comes to the Derby, I just get so pumped up, you know?

Yeah! The Derby's my dream!

I'm gonna enter someday and win it! It's my dream to stand among the greats and make my own amazing story!

Well, first I need to be scouted to do it. And it's gotta be a trainer who can take me all the way there!

Oh, but I have to focus on the exhibit! We can't fail if we work together!

And you know, you can call me Tickezo. Easier than saying my full name, right?

Hehe! Thanks, Trainer!

Knock, knock! You in here, Trainer?

Ah, there you are! Got a minute? I wanted to talk to you about the Derby exhibit.

I was thinking about the stuff we'll show. But, like... I wanna make things easier to understand.

Right now it's kinda just a spread of information. But what I really want is for people to be floored by what they see!

I thought maybe you'd have a good idea. Thinking up ideas isn't really my thing, hehe...

What I feel most passionately about?

Oh, I get it! So I should show the stuff that has all the juicy lore!

I've already got some other items I put together that might work! All right, time to make a sweet exhibit!

Oh, Oguri's trainer, right? I'll watch too! This should be good!

Congratulations on your URA award! In your long years of training, is there a race that stands out above the rest?

Well, I feel strongly about all the runners I've worked with. So each race has a special place in my heart.

This award commemorates all your amazing achievements. How did you feel when you heard you'd be receiving it?

Oh, I was so happy. I couldn't believe it... I wondered how I could deserve it.

Not every racer's dreams came true. I was never able to lead one of my own to victory in the Derby, after all.

I sure wanted it though, same as anyone involved in racing. They say a Derby win's the greatest honor one can achieve.

Huh? So he never won the Derby...

You know, the Derby was the very first big race of the Twinkle Series.

Ever since it began, lots of dramas have been made about the amazing racers who've tried so hard to win it.

And everyone's super-duper serious about it! That's why it's a huge challenge for even a veteran trainer and the most skilled racers to win.

You even participated in a Derby once where your runner was the favorite to win, but in the end, she didn't manage to clinch victory, right?

Ah, I remember it well. I trained her until she was all but assured of victory. Even so, her rivals gave her the slip in the final stretch.

Some people said if only we'd done this or that, we would've come out on top. But she'd given it everything she had, I knew I couldn't let myself think like them.

I told her not to regret a thing, just remember that she put her whole heart into it. Learn and push forward... That's what I realized we needed to do in the end.

They're talking about the first Derby I ever saw! I watched it right at the track with my mom!

Yeah, I'm sure of it! It was an absolutely amazing race!

Even though his racer was the favorite, she fell behind. But she was so focused on winning that she never gave up, even until the very end!

I finally understood how precious the Derby is after seeing that. That's why I fell in love with it.

I ended up retiring before I could ever win it... Now a member of Team Sirius carries on the dream though.

I truly believe that trainer can finally grab the title.

Hey, that's about you, right? He said you can win it!

Wha?! So you're gonna go after it?!

WAAAH! Now that's a story! A master who passes on the dream he couldn't achieve to his pupil!

The announcer's pretty good at interviewing too! I'm blown away that I got to hear this Derby story!

Huh? By "it," you mean...

W-wait... Go for the Derby? W-w-with me?!

Darn right I do! I've gotta win it! That's been my dream since I was little!

For... for real? You sure you wanna partner up with me?

Aaah... Uwaaaaagh!

WOOHOOOOO! I GOT SCOUTED! Let's do it, Trainer! Let's win the Derby!

Ehehe! I'm gonna earn you the title of "Derby trainer"!

Sweet! I'm super stoked to be working with you! All riiight! Let's go for the Derby!

I'm Winning Ticket. Pleasure to meet you!

Wow, someone with some real pep joined the gang.

I've heard much about you, Ticket. Your goal is to win the Derby, yes?

A great many racers share that goal. You'll have plenty of rivals, but we'll help you pursue this dream together.

Thanks! I promise to get Team Sirius a Derby victory!

Whoa, right on! Let's move out, newbie! The sun shines on us today!

Yeah! Here we come, DEEERBYYY!

That's the spirit! I'm right there with ya! To the DEEERBYYY!

Hey, guys! Thanks sooo much for coming all the way to Hakodate to root for me!

Of course! We'd do anything for a teammate!

This is your time to shine. And we'll cheer enough to make up for the members who couldn't come.

We'll hafta have one heck of a dinner after the race! Scallops and sea snails! Rice bowls with crab, sea urchin, and salmon roe!

And melon parfaits! Don't forget the melon parfaits!

Uh... So the food's why you really came?

Wh-what ever do you mean?! A fine meal is simply a bonus! Never mind that, you need to concentrate!

Oh, right. Focus, focus... All righty, Trainer, I'm off!

Okay! This is my first step on the road to the Derby! I've got this win down!

Uwaaaaagh! I looooost!

Shut it! How many times are you gonna wail about losing?

Sob... Don't be so mean. We've been friends since we started at the academy. Can't you at least comfort me a little?

You'd still end up crying about it even if I did.

Well, yeah, because this is my start toward the Derby, you know? The road's still so long, and I stumbled on the first step...

Yes, you had such high hopes. I can comprehend how you must feel.

Riiight?! What am I gonna do if this means I can never get into the Derby?!

Enough already! Losing your debut race doesn't mean your dreams are crushed!

I lost my debut, but I'm still gonna show everyone one day.

Precisely. You need to recover your footing. Save the despair for when your dream is truly quashed.

Oooh, you've got an unstoppable spirit, Taishin! And Hayahide, you stay cool on the outside and burn for a fight on the inside! I won't stay here crying!

I can't stop if I wanna win the Derby! Thanks, you two! Nothing's better than having friends by y-your... Uwaaaaah!

See, you ended up crying anyway! Can't you just be quiet?

Her emotions are also her strength. We'd do well to learn from that.

Nnnraaagh! To the Derbyyy!

Goodness... Ticket has so much energy...

I thought she'd still be reeling after yesterday. That's some weird enthusiasm.

She said her friends helped lift her spirits. What wonderful people they must be to understand her dream.

'Kaaay!

Pushing iiiiit! To the very eeend!

Huff... Huff... Phew! Finished! Thanks, Trainer!

Right! But I thought I'd run just a little bit longer.

I might have lost my debut race, but my friends have helped me get over it, and your passionate coaching has me all fired up again...

It feels like that loss wasn't for nothing. My drive for the Derby's gotten even stronger!

What an oddball. But you're my kind of oddball.

You have to keep up with her passion, Trainer. Can you do it?

Huh?

Consecutive races?! That much passion could be dangerous!

Ah... AAAGH! I'm gonna RACE!

I'm gonna face this challenge head-on and push through to the Derby! And we'll do it as a team, Trainer!

Yeeeeaaah!

Now Trainer's all fired up.

Doubtless due to Ticket's influence. I'm rather excited to see how their story unfolds.

And it's Winning Ticket! Winning Ticket wins the race!

She must have laughed when she heard people say this was no place for a queen.

Dark hair blowing in the wind, she danced into the lead as if it were a game. All anyone could do was bow before her majesty.

This queen's name was Vodka.

She turned everyone's dream into her own glory. And her eyes shone with the light of a future which no one had ever seen.

And then, and then! Check out this Derby, it was so moving! Right, Trainer?!

Okay, okay. Just show it to us nice and slow.

You did well to make such a fine exhibit while also training for your races.

I was sooo busy. But my trainer helped, and we got through it somehow!

Oh, yeah! I haven't introduced anybody yet!

This is my trainer! And this is Taishin and Hayahide!

Hi. So... you must have your hands full with her.

Indeed. I can imagine babysitting Ticket is quite the challenge. To think, she even roped you into assisting with the exhibition.

Come ooon! Is that what you two really think of me?!

You've got it backwards! Trainer came to help me with the exhibit first!

Two people preparing a Derby exhibit team up to win the Derby, that's gotta be fate. FATE!

Oh, and speaking of fate, that reminds me! You remember the promise we made when we first met, right?

The one we made in our first training class?

All right, everyone, to begin with, we're going to time your runs. I'd like you all to pick a distance that suits your aptitude, and measure your times.

Oh, oh, Instructor! Can I run 2,400 meters, just like the Derby?

Uh, yeah... It's up to you. But new students usually start with about half that.

I know! But my goal's the Derby!

Um, all right then... I'll ask just in case, does anyone else want to run 2,400 meters?

Me...

I would like to run 2,400 meters as well.

Really?! Are you all serious?

Huff... Wheeze... I-I can't do iiit! My time is way too slow!

Huff... Huff...

Ugh!

2,400 meters... Running a classics distance is no simple task.

You should work on mastering some basics first and improve to the point where you can run the whole thing.

Pant... Huff... U-understood...

I'll do it one day...

I will master this distance...

Heh... Ehehe! Hey, you two! Thanks for running with me!

I didn't do it for you, so don't thank me. That's just the distance I aim to run someday.

It's simply a distance one must be competent in to become a great racer.

I knew it! You're both going for the Derby too! Three students in the same class with eyes on the same goal...

Waaagh! What a story! Let's all race in the Derby togetheeer!

Ack! Wait... Why're you crying?!

Our race'll be one for the history books! The most heated, dramatic Derby ever!

Aaall right! Let's make that promise one more time! All together now! One, two... DEEERBYYY!

Huh? You didn't say it!

The curator of this exhibit is starting to annoy me. Let's go somewhere else.

I believe there's entertainment on the outdoor stage.

Whaaat?! Hold on!

We're just kidding. But really, I need to get to training soon.

Training? Right in the middle of the Solefall Faire?

Taishin's running in the next race.

Oh, right! You know I'll be there rooting for ya, Taishin!

Then let's go one more time to get in the spirit! One, two... DEEERBYYY!

I told you, that's annoying!

They're around the fourth corner and Narita Taishin is in second! But wait! The other racers are close behind!

Taishiiin! Go! YOU CAN DO IT!

Taishin!

Hey, Ticket...

D-don't worry about it! We'll train for the next one together!

Sorry, but don't bother trying to cheer me up. I wanna be alone right now.

Oh... Uh, sorry...

Huff... Huff... Huff...

Hey, hey, Taishin! Come on, let's train!

We promised to race in the Derby! So I really think it'd be cool to train together for it.

Huff... Huff... Huff...

Heeey! You listening?

Ugh! Quit bothering me!

I told you I don't need you to worry about me! I'm all good, so just focus on your own races! Dummy!

Uwaaagh! She called me a dummyyy!

I can picture it clearly. Were you pestering her?

But I reeeally wanted to make her feel better! Because I wanna race in the Derby together!

You don't need to explain, I understand what you were thinking. Naturally, Taishin does as well.

Whaaa... You really think she gets it? Even though she called me a dummy?

Yes, that's precisely it. We're all rivals who promised to race in the Derby together.

Yeah! Rivals on the track, besties off it!

Then you understand that cooperating isn't everything.

Uuuh... Uuuuummm... Actually, not really!

Run... ahead...

Seeing you win after consecutive races was rousing for both me and Taishin.

No words need be spoken. Just keep running ahead.

I get it... Taishin doesn't want us to slow down. She's trying hard to run with us!

Okay! I'm gonna run like crazy! I'll go nonstop 'cause I know Taishin'll catch up!

Huff... Huff... Huff...

Huff... Huff... Huff...

Huff... Huff... Huff...

Sigh... Students using the training course after hours is a no-no. What to do?

Hehe, if I must. I insist you look after them though.

I wouldn't dream of getting in the way during this important time in their lives. ♪

Huff, puff, huff, puff...

Hmph... Huff, puff, huff...

Ugh! Huff, huff, huff...

Ah! Rrrnnngh!

Ngh! Hraaah!

Hey! Hwaaaaah!

Huff, puff, huff, puff...

What're you running so seriously for?! Dummy!

You were running serious first! Actually, Hayahide started it!

Because Taishin overtook me!

Huh? Did not! Ticket was the one who shot off first!

Don't lie! Grrr!

Pft... Hehe.

Hey, why'd you turn the other way? Are you laughing?

Heh-heh... Hahaha!

Ehehe... Ahahaha!

I wonder if the sky will be this clear on the day of the Derby.

Geez... All you ever think about is the Derby.

Yeah, it's the big race I've always dreamed of running. It brings together everyone who shares the same dream.

Everyone there pushes themselves to the limit through the entire 2,400 meters, all to get the greatest glory there is.

Just watching it gets my heart going... I wanna get out there on that turf and win it.

I... have someone I want to beat as much as I want to defeat you two. And I have to get better to do it.

How I see it, a Derby win won't only give me renown, but it will also act as proof of my abilities. Thus, I will accept nothing less than victory.

As for me, people have been expecting me to fail since before I even got into the academy.

I haven't been getting the wins, so it's not crazy for them to think that, but it sucks being known for it. It makes me fed up with myself.

So I wanna show them. I'll win the Derby and prove I'm not a weakling.

Then let's run together! Because all of us wanna win the Derby no matter what!

Whoooa! Look at all these people! New Year's around here is like the Derby!

Just look, it's super crowded, right? Same as the Derby!

You make everything about the Derby.

Soon she'll be telling us how a washing machine is like the Derby.

I wish I could've gotten Top Junior though...

I was hoping I could too.

No way, you'd start bawling at the awards ceremony.

Wait, could that be why I didn't get picked?!

Yeah! First the Satsuki Sho, then the Japanese Derby, and the Kikuka Sho! But especially the derby!

It's an honor to win any of them... And I want that honor more than anything.

Yeeeah, let's pray on it! I wish to win the Yayoi Sho and move right on to the Classics!

Oh, and, and! I wanna race together with Taishin and Hayahide! The end!

Extra, extra!

Read all about it! Not only is Tickezo racing in the Yayoi Sho, Taishin will now too!

Taishin too?! Waaah! Our time to race together's finally cooome!

Eheheh. You shouldn't be all too pleased. Everyone's been talking about how good Taishin's looking.

Yeah! All the more reason I need to step it up!

Hey, Trainer! I wanna shorten the time I need to go from zero to top speed.

Right! Bring it on!

We're here today at the Yayoi Sho! The racers are now making their way onto the track!

Hey! We're all walking the runners' tunnel together, Taishin!

Quit yelling, the echo's crazy down here.

Hehe, you two never change.

'Cause we're rivals! And rivals are friends for life!

Quit it with that!

It does feel special to be running with you, but this doesn't change anything for me.

I'm still gonna go all out to win this.

I feel the same way! Running with each other isn't the goal, I've gotta win!

I'll be watching you two out there. Make me proud to be your rival.

You got it!

Right, here I go.

Which runner has what it takes to win the Yayoi Sho?! They're in the starting gate...

And they're off!

Hey, Trainer! Hayahide! There you are!

Hehehe! I think I even surprised myself! They said it's a new Yayoi Sho record!

When I saw Taishin right behind me, I felt this power surging up inside of me.

She taught me that a rival can help you draw out a strength in yourself you didn't even... know you h-had... Waaaaah!

I know I lost, but... I ran one heck of a race.

I can't believe how unfair this is. I'm so envious I didn't get to race with you two.

I won't lose the next one. However good a race I give, it's meaningless if I don't win.

Hehe, I won't be missing the Satsuki Sho either. Next time, we're in it together.

Yeah! Together to the end!

It was a wondrous moment.

When the three converged near the finish, they each wanted time to stop right there.

But as if her fate was guided by the alpha star inscribed in her name, the racer in blue crossed the finish line, spelling the end of that moment.

The name of that star was Admire Vega.

Their goal should have been to cross that line quickly, and yet...

If it were possible, they would have stayed racing in their shared moment forever.

The battle of the Classics has come at last. Leading off is the first race in the series, the Satsuki Sho.

Today we have with us the first, second and third favorites to win the race. It's the trio on everyone's lips, BNW!

Uuugh... I'm so nervous it's making me itchy...

I'm not used to you being so quiet. It's making me nervous!

Deep breaths... nice and slow.

Inhale... Exhale...

I'd now like to begin today's press conference with the runners of the Satsuki Sho.

I understand that the three of you are good friends. How do you feel facing each other in the same race?

When we entered the academy, we talked about racing together. Now that the time's finally here, it's rather exciting.

Um... Same for me.

Ah, me too! Put me down as samesies with Hayahide!

C-copycats...

The public has endearingly dubbed the three of you "BNW". Leading into the Classics, what would you like to say to the public?

You two go first this time.

After you, Ticket.

Wha, me?!

Uh... The... the BWH trio is gonna make it big!

...Isn't "BWH" a set of measurements?

Gaaaaagh! I messed it up!

I've never seen such a botched press conference.

Well, sometimes we have to let Ticket do her thing.

I'm still SO embarrassed just thinking about it!

Ah! It's BNW!

We just saw your press conference! You're such a joker, Tickezo!

I didn't do it on purpose!

You were amazing in the Yayoi Sho! I turned into a total Tickezo fan after that!

For real?! Thanks! Keep watching, I'm gonna win the Satsuki Sho too!

Um, do you think I could get your autographs?!

Me too, please!

Yeah, fine with you two, right? I just got used to signing my name!

Phew, that was a lot of signing!

It's finally calmed down. I didn't think a crowd could form so quickly.

And now we see who's most popular. You were signing nonstop, huh?

I dunno if I'm happy or embarrassed...

But every year, over a hundred thousand fans show up to see the Derby, you know? I gotta be able to sign like the wind!

Sorry? Don't tell me you're gonna give autographs to a hundred thousand people.

I know it's impossible, but I wish I could. Even in that press conference, I felt like I couldn't let all those people down.

For all the autographs I can't sign, I gotta give them a race that'll make them really happy!

Hehe, sometimes you say some poignant things.

Hehehe! Oh, yeah! You two wanna take some photos together to turn into stickers?

We're about to start the Classics, so it'd be like a sign of our determination!

Seems like kind of a weird way to show that... But sure, why not?

Oh, look, look! This booth makes faces look smaller! You're always worried about how big your head is, right, Hayahide?

I worry about the abundance of my hair! Not the size of my head!

Oh, was that it? Whatever! Check it out, you can write stuff on the pics, so let's put "Derby" on there!

Why "Derby"?! The next race is the Satsuki Sho!

Hehe! Come on, it'll be fun! We're gonna race through the Classics togetheeer!

Hey there! Oh, don't mind me. Feel free to keep working.

Now, it should be with the exhibit stuff...

Yeah... An old notebook...

Your mentor? Oh! The one who got the URA award!

Hey, kid. Are you well? I hear that new trainee of yours is stirring up a storm, so thought I'd give you a call.

So? You confident she can do it? The Derby's the top of the top. Only real highfliers make it into that race.

Hahaha! Right, what I said in my acceptance speech.

Good, that long-held dream is a strength that will serve her well in the Derby.

I'm not trying to sound like an idealist or anything, but the Derby is where ability and emotion collide.

In the end we didn't win, but all that experience leading up to it wasn't for nothing.

Anyhow, you've got this old man excited to see her in the Derby.

WOW, that was a surprise. I was wondering what was up when I heard my name.

Hehe, you got it! So long as you make me a Derby champion!

Wait... Is it that I win or that you lead me to win? I'm all confused now.

Oh right, I was looking for something! I used it at the exhibit, so it should be around here...

Ah, here it is! My Derby notebook!

Yeah! I accidentally left it in this box, I guess.

This is a record of all the Derbies I've seen and what I thought about each one. And...

My own path to the Derby is outlined in here.

There, all done!

The next page'll be photos from my win at the Derby. Ehehe...

I was a scrawny little kid growing up.

My mom was so worried she had me doing all sorts of sports. She'd take me to see them a lot too.

Sports train both the body and mind! She sounds like one tough mommy, right?

But, like, the first race I ever saw live was the Derby. I said it before, but it really blew my socks off.

The proud winner, the racers who ran against all odds and didn't quit till the very end, and the countless cheering fans...

On the way home, racing was all I could think about. I was in tons of sports classes, but I told my mom I was quitting them all.

Thinking back on it, it was way too sudden. But mom said "We'll just have to go out and buy running shoes!"

I'm suuuper bad at studying, but I really stuck with racing. You see, it's because of the Derby that I got to meet you and all my friends!

So... It's my mission to race in the Derby and win it!

Yeah!

Sorry for going on about the Derby for so long. I get so carried away talking about it.

Hehe, you bet I do! I'm confident I can't be beaten when it comes to passion!

Oh, by the way... I was gonna take this home, but I'll give it to you instead.

It's absolutely packed with stuff about the Derby, so give it a good read! It'll make your love for the race even stronger!

All right, see you tomorrow! Can't wait for another day of training!

Huff, puff, huff, puff...

Phew... 'Kay, next I'll do ten sprints.

Huff... puff... huff... puff...

Exhale...

Huh? Hey, look, it's Taishin.

Oh, yeah. Still pint-sized as ever.

Oh, it's you two...

Well, well. Look at that uniform... So you got into Tracen Academy.

Isn't it a little hard, Taishin? Trying to be a Tracen runner I mean.

What?

Seriously, we're no Umamusume, but I bet we could win against you!

Haha, guess we're good enough for Tracen too.

...

Geez, still making that same sour face. What a loser. Let's get outta here.

Laters. ♪

Tch!

Taishiiin! We're back! And we brought the goods, TAIYAKI!

Huh? You in a bad mood?

...I'm fine.

It's probably because you took so long shopping, Ticket.

But Taishin's always like, "I don't care. Get anything." Between crepes and ice cream, I didn't know what to choose!

But look, I got you the super-duper size, so you can get big and strong!

S-super-duper?!

No worries if you can't finish the whole thing, we'll help out! Let's sit down over there and eat.

Come on, they'll get cold if we don't hurry! Pick up the pace!

Really... Let's go, Taishin.

'Kay.

All right, one more lap!

I'm so full of energy! Let's get this extra training going!

Yeah! All riiight! Time to get fired UP!

Ah, it's Winning Ticket and her trainer. I take it you're about to start training.

Well, you see, a group of reporters have gathered in front of the academy.

I'm thinking of asking them to leave so they don't interfere with training. There are only a few days left until the Satsuki Sho, after all.

Oh, let me talk to them! No way could I Iet down any fans or reporters!

Oh? But your training...

It's fine! I'm not trying to skip it or anything. I'm still gonna do exactly as we planned!

So! Looks like I'll be at it until curfew! You'll stick with me the whole time, right?

Hehehe, let's go see those reporters then!

Ah! Winning Ticket's here!

Ticket! Are you taking questions?

Whoa! No need to push. I'll answer everyone's questions!

Winning Ticket! How's your training coming along?

Um... It's really great! I can tell I'm getting better each day!

Are you worried about your two rivals running in the same race?

No way! I'm totally excited to race with them! And not just in the Satsuki Sho, but in the Derby too!

You look like you're in a jam.

Oh, Taishin! Hehe... You know me, couldn't refuse.

Narita Taishin! Regarding your first race of the Classics, will you...

Sorry, I've got training. Later, Ticket.

Oh... O-okay.

Biwa Hayahide avoided us just before too.

She did?

Uwaaagh! Just hearing "Classic race" is making me nervous!

Taishin and Hayahide will be with me too! So I'll be able to go all out!

Yeah! I'm ready!

Oh, Taishin! Hayahide! HEEEEEY!

Shut up! I told you, the echo in here is crazy!

Hehe, I can't help it. I'm so happy to race together!

I understand your enthusiasm. We've been through many races and are finally standing on the same track. It's deeply moving.

I guess... it's kinda cool that all three of us made it here.

However, running together is not our goal.

To run and to win... We've given everything for that reason. It was all to be here, on this day.

Me too. I've wanted nothing more than to make it here. So I'm gonna race like never before and win this.

Yeah! I don't intend to lose either!

Expectations are high for the favorite racer entering now, BNW member, Winning Ticket!

The runners are entering the gate! The first race of the Classics, the Satsuki Sho... begins!

They called it the Derby with the greatest racers of all time.

Among such amazing runners, no one thought of her as special.

But she knew who she was.

To leave her past defeats behind, she unleashed all her being into the final sprint and, in a burst of blinding light, stood victorious at the finish.

That light had a name, Eishin Flash.

The strongest are always those who believe in themselves and follow their own path.

Huff... Huff... Phew...

What was next, incline training?

Huh? Oh, I'm fine.

You know, I kinda feel like I can't take a break, even for a day... Ehehe.

So I'm gonna get on with incline training!

She always lets her feelings take the wheel, so I thought she'd be all like, "Nooo, I lost!"

But she doesn't seem to have her normal boundless energy. Losing the Satsuki Sho must've been a tremendous shock.

'Cause it means she could lose the Derby next.

Trainer, make sure to keep an eye on her please.

Oh, Trainer.

No, just thought I'd watch a racing video.

...

Wha?! O-oh, right... Yeah. I'll be in the race I've been watching since forever.

Um, Trainer? Can I say something pretty obvious?

In racing, there's times when you lose, huh?

Yeah, but I tried my hardest in the Satsuki Sho. I did everything I could have.

Still... it wasn't enough. I feel like I finally understand how hard racing really is.

So now the videos I was always so excited to watch... It's like they've turned into something else.

I used to see the racers who lost and get all worked up like it was some big theater performance.

But I had no idea what they were really feeling. How it felt when their dreams were shattered...

Oh, ha ha... Guess I'm a little on edge!

Welp, I'd better get back soon or the dorm head will get pretty mad! See you tomorrow!

Phew...

Ack... This ship's running on fumes... Just about break time I'd say!

Why would you use all your energy warming up?! I expect you to train seriously!

...

By the by, I'm seeing a lot of people with cameras around the course. What's that about?

Reporters sniffing around for a story no doubt. Today is a public training day.

Ah, now it makes sense! So the public's here to train with us?

That's not what it means. Whenever a race is approaching, journalists come to see how our training is coming along.

And today is public day for the Derby. So there are even more reporters than usual it seems.

Oh, that was today?

Ah, right... Okay.

There's the BNW trio. Narita Taishin won the Satsuki Sho, all eyes'll be on her.

Biwa Hayahide isn't one to sneeze at either. And she's only going to get better from here.

All right, next is Winning Ticket.

Hey, Trainer, you seen Ticket?

She didn't. And she wasn't near the starting line when it was her turn to run.

Hm, if you don't know...

No... She wouldn't!

H-hey! Taishin!

Ticket! What're you doing?!

This is public training for the DERBY! And you're not running?! What're you hiding from?!

Sorry... I didn't mean to hide from anyone.

But my legs... They just won't budge.

You... don't mean you're injured, I take it.

I'm scared... What if I can't keep up with everyone in public training? I...

So that's what's been on your mind since you lost the Satsuki Sho?

...

To hell with that!

You lost your nerve after a single defeat?! What happened to your gotta-win attitude?!

I've lost tons of times. And I was freaked out when I saw I couldn't cut it!

But still... I faced my fears and worked my butt off! 'Cause I wasn't gonna break our promise!

Ugh, forget it! This sucks!

You're not the only one who's scared you know. I continue on in spite of my fear.

There's nothing more for us to say. It's up to you to clear your head.

...

To be honest, I didn't realize it'd be this scary...

You only get one shot at the Derby... There's no next time...

Being broadcast live on TV is really nerve-racking. I can't mess up like I did at the Satsuki Sho prerace press conference.

Um... A little...

The Derby this year is full of strong contenders. Tell us how you feel about that.

Naturally, I've been keeping an eye on all my rivals and how they race. So I understand that they all have serious skills on the track.

But I've finally made it to this once-in-a-lifetime race. All I'm thinking about is taking the lead and crossing the finish line.

Wow, she knows how to keep her eyes on the prize. I can tell she means it too.

I think I'll say that I've always dreamed of this race, that I'm going to win it and become a Derby champion.

But... that's not how I really feel. I'm actually terrified of losing.

Ehehe, sorry for being wishy-washy. I'm just no good at this.

Everyone else is saying how much they want to win the Derby, but I'm probably the only one this scared.

I can barely feel my legs. It's like they're not mine or something.

Ahaha, I knew it. If I go out there like this, they'll all laugh at me.

I'm not gonna win the Derby. It's better if I just qui...

Huh? I can?

What're you saying?! Even you admitted it! I'm way more scared than anyone else! I'm the weakest runner here...

That ridiculous! Only a loser squirms in their shoes at such an important race!

...

Oh... My notebook.

The weight of my dream... pushes me forward...

Sob... The Derby... The thing I've wanted my entire life!

I wanna win! It's always been my dream! I'm scared, but I can't quit now! URAAAAAGH!

Whoo! That was a good cry! I mean, I'm always crying, but that was an especially good one, hehe.

I'm terrified about losing, but my will to win is as great as my fear! After all, I've got a big dream to fulfill!

Right! Now I'm really raring to go! DEEERBYYYYY!

Sorry to intrude. Winning Ticket, you're up next.

Okay! I'm ready for it!

All right, next we have Narita Taishin.

Oh, it's Taishin! Sorry, Ms. Tazuna! Can you wait just a minute?

Very well, just one minute...

It looks like you've been training very hard, Ms. Taishin. You don't seem to let up, even after winning the Satsuki Sho.

Of course. My opponents aren't sitting quiet after they lost the Satsuki Sho. So I can't take it easy either. I won't let this slip by me.

The only thing my rivals are going to see in the Derby is my back.

Sure, but I'll be the one in front this time!

Moving on, here is Biwa Hayahide.

Hayahide! Ms. Tazuna, just one more minute!

What?! But you're on immediately after her!

Not you too! This is live television!

I was able to make it to the Derby due in no small part to the existence of my rivals.

When my peers got one step ahead, I strove to take two. In doing so, we pushed each other forward to make it here.

However, simply being in the race isn't the goal. My aim is to race against my rivals and win.

Hehehe, let's do it, Hayahide!

Yeah! I'll run like never before! Our Derby is going to be the greatest Derby ever!

Now that my mind's made up, I have to get moving right this moment! Super sorry, Ms. Tazuna, but I'm skipping the press conference!

Whaaat?! S-stop right there, Winning Ticket!

You couldn't have told me that sooner?!

Uwaaaaagh! Faster! Faster, faster!

So that's why she didn't come to the conference, she was running.

Yes, but... why is she running in her uniform?

Haha, that's just the way she is. When it comes to the Derby, nothing'll stop her from running.

I'M GONNA WIIIN! DEEEEERBYYYYY!

Exhale...

Even standing behind her, I can tell she's never been so focused.

Yeah, she's normally making a racket screaming our ears off.

Oooh... Even I'm getting nervous...

Nnngh! Hrrrgh! It's no good, I'm all itchy!

I get all tense when I focus! And when I get tense, I get itchy!

If you're really that itchy, we can use our special trick to give you a decent send off.

Special trick?

O-one, two... three!

Good luck!

Hyaaah! That was hard!

You're good to go! Now, have the best Derby ever, Ticket!

You know I will! I'm gonna run the race of my life!

Until now, the Derby has been something exciting that I aspired to. But this time, I'm actually in it...

I've got my rivals, my team, and my trainer with me... Now this is my Derby!

Yeah! Just watch me!

Wooooo!

TIC-KE-ZO! TIC-KE-ZO!

Hah! You hearing this?

I expected no less. That was an outstanding Derby!

Aaah... The Derby! I won the... I won the...

Geez, you beat me fair and square.

It was the only possible path. Yours was truly the road to victory.

Taishin! Hayahide!

That was the best race... The best Derby ever! And it was ours!

But it won't go this way next time. In the Kikuka Sho, it'll be my turn to win.

Yeah, our goal isn't just the Derby. There's still plenty of races to go.

Totally! And we'll run them all together! Let's go for it! To what's beyond the Derby!

That's quite a chant. You can hear it across the entire racetrack.

Ah, Traineeer!

I did it! I won the Derby! It feels like I'm dreaming!

Congratulations, Winning Ticket. Hehe, are you sure you didn't want to take in more of that applause?

Hehe, sure, but there's interviews to do.

And, you know, this won't be the last I hear it. There's gonna be tons of chances in the future!

Yeah! Let's make it happen together!

All right, Ms. Tazuna! Let's get to those interviews! I gotta make up for missing the prerace press conference!

And now, the racer who won the Derby in spectacular fashion, please welcome Winning Ticket!

Heehee, thank you very much!

First, hearing the audience chant your name after the race, how did it make you feel?

I gave my all to make this the best Derby ever, so I was really happy that everyone watching picked up on it!

You raced against your BNW rivals today. What was the key to your victory?

I trained a whole lot, for sure, but what really motivated me...

Was my dream of winning the Derby, and the promise I made with my bestie rivals. That, and...

I really wanted to make my trainer a Derby trainer for being so supportive all this time!

One last thing. A message from the Derby winner!

My name's Winning Ticket, and I'm the winner of the greatest Derby ever!

Every time she watched the Derby, her desire grew. Every time she watched the Derby, her dream took shape.

Those all-important emotions became her express ticket to victory.

She proved worthy of her name, Winning Ticket.

Fans forever chant for the racer who ran with passion for the Derby, and the wonderful story she wove together with her rivals.

Her story will never unravel, but instead will be spun into new, fantastic tales for years to come.