Flying Run-Up!

"Dear Mom, how are you doing?"

"I'm having a great time! Each day is filled with so much excitement, it's almost hard to keep up."

"We had a triathlon at the academy recently, and can you believe it? I entered the competition!"

"It was sooooo much fun! But it's all the other competitors that impressed me the most. They were amazing!"

The older racers gave me lots of courage. Just like them, I want to inspire others with my running.

Also, I want to keep running with everyone!

"Just announced, the Tracen Academy Team Triathlon"... We're having a triathlon?!

I didn't know the school held triathlons for us! It looks like this one is sponsored by a sporting goods manufacturer to celebrate their anniversary.

It says they're accepting entries now! It's four people per team, so... Dia, that means we can enter together!

Hehe! I was just about to say that!

I've always wanted to enter one of the academy's events! And since this one's an anniversary, it has a fun festival feel to it!

Sounds like the festival lover in you is already getting excited!

I guess so! But you're pretty full of enthusiasm yourself!

Hehe! Come on, we have teammates to find!

Yeah! Let's start by asking around class!

"There are three disciplines in the triathlon, swimming, cycling, and running. In Tracen's triathlon, running is split into two segments, making for a four-person relay." Sounds fun!

Hehe, that sounds like the perfect event for a multi-talented athlete like you. Will you participate?

Definitely! I can already feel my muscles getting fired up for it!

My, then we mustn't let their excitement go to waste! Would you allow me to join your team?

You wanna join me?! Yeah, please do!

Of course. I, Mejiro Bright, will make every effort to be a useful member of your team!

Let's make sure we win this, dear Sister!

Haha, you sound even more pumped than I am! All right, let's do this, Bright!

Let's see... "Triathlon entry requirements"... Oh, they have special rules. "Kickboard use is permitted." "The first running segment involves a mission."

"Details of the mission will be announced on the day of the event"? That sounds like fun! Think I'll scout out some more info. ♪

"First-place and honorary winners will receive prizes from the sporting goods company." The grand prize is... a buffet at a luxury hotel?!

Buffet means... all you can eat, right?! Drool.

It says here the triathlon will be broadcast on TV! You interested, Ayabe?

Not in the slightest.

Well that was blunt... I'd expect nothing less from you though!

Don't you think it could be interesting though? We could team up with racers from other distances who we usually wouldn't get a chance to run with!

Are you going to enter?

Hm... Well, I am interested... but I'd like to think on it before I make a decision!

In this spectacular anniversary event, I must take to the stage for the sake of Tracen Academy's honor!

Not to mention for the sake of the producers of the various garments that adorn my body on a daily basis! Let the Overlord perform the greatest show of all!

You're even thinking of the academy and the sports company. Wow, you're amazing, Opera O!

Ha ha ha! It comes naturally to the Overlord! Now, let us assemble our cast right away!

Hm... "Display the fruits of your daily training and make this event a thrilling success worthy of Tracen Academy!, Director Akikawa"

Oh! As the class rep, this is where I must step up! I'll take the initiative to enter so the event gains popularity!

I have received the director's instructions loud and clear! I know what I must do, swap out all the bicycles for crayfish!

No, I should just jump into the sea and become a whirlpool! Where's the most interesting team? Come on out!

Good morning! A delightful day starts with a warm greeting! Join me now, everyone, good morning!

Also, I would like to announce that I, your class representative, will be participating in the team triathlon!

And I would like some teammates to join me! Please, please, please let me know if you're interested!

Good morning!

And a good morning to you, too! What great energy to start the day with!

So Bakushin O is entering the triathlon. I bet her team will fill up in no time after that announcement.

Yeah! All right, we gotta start recruiting too!

Ah, sorry... I don't think I can... I'm not that good at swimming or cycling anyway, so...

Oh... But you can run!

Yeah, but at this point, we don't stand a chance. Don't you know who we're up against? The older students are entering too.

They have more years of experience and training under their belt. We'd only be turning the competition into a boring stomp.

Uh... I hadn't thought of that...

We won't know unless we try. It's not like the results are already decided.

True, you two might actually stand a chance! We'll sit this one out, but we'll be rooting for you! Good luck!

Look, it's N-Narita Top Road. Sh-sh-she's talking about the triathlon.

Well then, we must make haste! I'd like her to join my team.

...Looks like Opera O is going to scout Top Road for her team.

She's getting scouted? Wow!

She's so good that people come to her with offers. I see, so this is how the seniors team up...

...I completely forgot that we'd be competing against them. Hehe, I must've gotten carried away...

Kita...

Hey Top Road, you're entering the triathlon, right? Who's on your team? I guess it doesn't matter as long as you're on it!

I think you have a real shot at winning! I can't wait to see you compete!

Um... I haven't actually decided if I'm entering or not yet. I mean, I'm not that...

Coming through. Excuse me, Top Road. Are you still doubting if you should participate?

Yeah, I'm still thinking about it!

Ah, what a tragedy! Do you not hear it? The applause of the audience! The cheers calling on you to seek glory!

The crowd is begging to see your dazzling performance on the anniversary stage. Do you intend to disappoint them?

I know you do not. You are not so cruel. I believe that you will take my hand and join me at the banquet!

...Are you... inviting me to your team?

Precisely! You are worthy of making an appearance in the legend of the Overlord. I have long waited to make this fateful invitation!

You have? ...I see.

Hehe. Then I accept! Please allow me to join your team! I'll do my best to live up to everyone's expectations!

Fantastic! Together, we, the fiercest of heroes, shall enliven the show! Now that we have myself, Top Road, and Doto, we only need one more member.

Wh-whaaa?! Y-you mean I was part of the team too?!

I'll pass. I already told you I'm not interested.

Aren't you on Opera O's team? I thought I already turned down her invite.

Yes, I heard. But then I saw her registering you onto our team...

So I stopped her and came to ask you myself! It wouldn't be right to go behind your back.

Thanks. I can't believe she did that...

She dragged you into this too, I assume. You know... you ought to stand up for yourself.

Opera O gave me the final push I needed to enter, but I made the decision myself!

She made me realize something. She said that people are hoping to see me compete, so I should step up and get onstage!

And I thought, she has a point! It's an honor to have people rooting for me, so I don't want to let them down!

I think she sees some skill in me too, and that's why she came to ask me in particular.

Or at least I think so. With the way she speaks, it's hard to understand her sometimes!

...You're seriously...

Fine. I'll join.

Really?! Thank you, Ayabe!

If I don't step in, you'll get wrapped around Opera O's little finger. You're too naive for your own good.

Opera O, Doto, Ayabe, and Top Road have teamed up, huh. Sounds like a strong team.

Oh, it's Ryan and Bright. They look like they're up to no good... Time to go into ninja mode. Nin nin.

Since it's a triathlon, we'll probably need someone with good endurance.

Ah, how about Spe? She's a great eater, so she knows how to fuel up!

My, my. Her plate is overflowing as usual. Hehe, going for seconds, are we? She's still got more room to fill up.

I think you're right. She seems like she'd have good endurance. I'm sure she would be an invaluable addition to our team.

All right, let's wait till she's finished eating and ask her! Uh, Bright? What's up?

Hehe. We'll need brains too, since we're new to this kind of competition. I have someone in mind for the last spot.

Triathlon, triathlon... There it is!

Hey, Spe!

Wha?! Oh, Ryan! And you're with Bright.

So you were looking for books about the triathlon. Well that makes this easy. Spe, would you like to join our team?

Huh? Are you... scouting me?! Why me?

Cause you can eat a ton, so you'll have plenty of energy to complete a triathlon. Not to mention, you've got some nice, supple muscles on you!

I do? How can you tell just by looking?

Ryan knows muscles so well, she can hear their little voices!

Hah, well believe me when I say I came to you 'cause you have talent. So, what do you say? Wanna team up with us?

Well, to tell you the truth, I'm more interested in the prize buffet than the triathlon itself...

So you've got your eye on the prize! That's perfect, 'cause we're in it to win it too!

Really? Sounds great! I'd love to join you! Let's win this buffet!

Spe's joining Ryan! Gee, this team looks strong too! Let's put a star by this one.

Hehe, getting some good intel there, Detective Matikanetannhauser?

WHA! B-B-Bright?! I'm not spying or anything.

If you're still looking for a team, would you consider joining ours?

Huh? Um, I think you've got the wrong person.

I don't think so. I'm inviting you because I've seen how good you are at gathering information and applying your research to training.

A win would mean so much to me. I want to uphold the Mejiro name. And I also want to win for my big sister Ryan, who's watched over me since I was little.

So please lend me your skills. To have a chance at victory, we need you!

You need... me?

I-i-it would be an honor! If you don't mind having me! I'm pretty average, but I'll do my best for the team!

It's an honor to have you. With this lineup, I feel confident we can win it!

Hey Kita, today's the deadline for entering the triathlon, you know.

I know...

...Do you think we can find two team members?

...What do you th...

Whoa! Ack!

S-sorry! I wasn't looking where I was going.

No problem at all, don't you fret. Oh? Are you two entering the triathlon?

...No, well... we're, um...

I saw your name on the list, Bakushin O. Have you decided on your teammates?

Yes. In the first leg, Sakura Bakushin O. In the second leg, Sakura Bakushin O. Third leg, Sakura Bakushin O. And the anchor, Sakura Bakushin O!

What?! Are you seriously doing the whole event by yourself?!

I am indeed! At first I asked my classmates to join me, but everyone declined.

They seemed worried about me, saying it would require too much stamina.

But perhaps I made them too nervous to team up with me, being the class representative and all.

And that's why, as class rep, I have decided to face the challenge head-on and enter as a one-person team! Ha ha ha!

W-wow... You've got a will of steel!

You must have overcome a lot of trials here to have that kind of determination.

Reckless as it may be, I welcome the challenge! The tougher the better! I'll enter even if I'm by myself!

Reckless as it may be... The tougher the better...

Dia, let's enter! I actually do want to compete!

We've finally got a chance to do an event together. Even if we're no match for the others, even if they laugh at us, I want to team up with you!

Kita! Me too!

Bakushin O, would you do us the honor of joining our team? Please let us learn from you!

We still don't have enough teammates! You'd be doing us a big favor!

I see, you are in a predicament! Very well! If that's the case, then I will lend you a hand. Why? Because I'm the class rep!

Hey, hey, hey! My search is over! This is perfect! This is the team I've been looking for!

G-Golshi?

Man, it was worth waiting till the last minute. Who knew such an interesting team would form!

It's like a collision of personalities, no, a collision of variables! This can only result in a big BANG!

So anyways, I'll be joining your team! You're welcome!

Okay! Pleased to have you!

Mm. With these three teams, we complete the roster.

On team "Centurial", T.M. Opera O, Meisho Doto, Admire Vega, and Narita Top Road.

On team "Muscle", Mejiro Ryan, Mejiro Bright, Special Week, and Matikanetannhauser.

And team "Bakushin", Sakura Bakushin O, Gold Ship, Kitasan Black, and Satono Diamond.

There are eight teams in total. This is shaping up to be an exciting anniversary event! What good fortune!

Very well then! Let us begin our Team Bakushin training! Is everyone ready?

Yes! Yup!

I'd like to see where everyone's endurance is at, so let's run some ramps!

A suggestion! Let's do the ramped course on unicycles! I found some in the equipment shed this morning!

What?! Why unicycles all of a sudden?!

Isn't it obvious? There's a good reason why I made the suggestion... Because it'd be fun, duh!

Is that it? So it doesn't have anything to do with endurance?!

Fine, I'll up the ante then! Whoever can complete the course within the fewest pedals wins!

A friendly competition? Sounds fun! Oh, we should probably cover the track with some planks, right? I'll do that!

Oh? That's the spirit! All right! Well, today's training will be a unicycle battle!

Whoever comes in last place has to buy us all yakisoba buns on the way home!

You're on!

Hey, sorry to leave you with the first running segment.

It's fine... You'd be hopeless if the mission was something finicky like kendama or a 3-point shot anyway.

Haaah ha ha! Top Road's swimming is as dynamic as a dolphin show!

W-wait... She's making such a splash, she's about to drown Doto next to her!

Oh look, Top Road is comi, weeegh! She's driven her whole bike into a bush!

Haaah ha ha! A rendezvous with the tree fairies cleverly disguised as an unfortunate blunder! Wish I'd thought of that one!

Well, it's not like you usually have any reason to ride a bike. It's faster to run, so it makes sense you can't ride one.

Haha, I'm not very good with intricate stuff. I actually wasn't going to enter the triathlon because of that...

But since I've been trusted with the running section, I'm going to rise to the responsibility! So Ayabe, please do a partner run with me!

Pant, pant...

(Ayabe is still behind me, so if I just sprint now... I can make it!)

Haaaaa!

Huh?!

Ngh!

Ayabe?! Where did that speed come from?!

Guh... RRRAH!

(I guess I have to start sprinting earlier... But if the distance was just a bit longer, then that timing would've worked...)

...Do you want to run the same distance again for the next one? I'd like to try a longer one if you're up for it.

Yeah! Let's try a longer race this time!

It's about time I started heading home.

Ah... I'm going to stay and run a little bit longer!

Okay. Don't overdo it though. Well, see you later.

Thank you for today! Bye!

(I realized while I was running with Ayabe... I need to learn more about pacing and positioning.)

(I was too clumsy for swimming and cycling, so I have to put my all into running!)

All right! I'm going to put aside more time for research and training!

Today's training is red light, green light! We'll make it longer this time, and start from the school gates...

Um, I have a question.

So far, our training has felt a lot like play, and I'm wondering if that's going to be enough.

It is really fun! But maybe... should we try some normal training like weights or something?

What, you're bored and you want more of a challenge? In that case, let's step it up!

Good idea! As the class rep, I must take into account the opinions of my dear junior!

Aite. Gimme a minute.

And so, I have called on Team Centurial to join us!

Great! I brought Team Muscle over.

Then let us begin! Our joint training activity will be tag!

If you're tagged by "it," you become "it," and the "it" who tagged you is no longer "it." When time's up, whoever's not "it" wins!

Y-you called everyone over to play more games?!

Pheeew! I... I think I finally outran her. I need a little break...

Bright wouldn't let up chasing me the whole time. Even though Doto was right next to me tying her shoelaces, why me?

Huff... puff... I caught up to you!

Teehee, tag!

Huh? No way! And she's already gone!

Opera O, why have you been running beside me for so long? You can reach me if you just reach out your hand, can't you?

I won't fall for that! The moment I reach out to tag you, you'll speed up!

...!

And I'll admit, part of me is enjoying this little exchange of ours!

She saw right through me... And what's worse, she's not tiring out at all!

So I'll have to shake you off here!

You're not getting away!

So you dodged me, huh. You're tenacious, I'll give you that.

Pant... pant... I can't keep running anymore!

Nah, I know you've got stamina 'cause you've already made it this far. What's more, you're pretty observant, too.

Have you been doing some complex training? I'd love to hear more about it... later!

And that concludes our joint training! Thank you for joining us, Team Centurial and Team Muscle!

No, thank you for inviting us! That was fun! I feel like we'll return to training tomorrow with renewed vigor.

Sticking to just one type of training can be limiting sometimes, so this was a great chance to broaden our horizons!

...What's wrong, Kita?

...Maybe the training we've been doing has been worth it all along.

Like today, Ryan complimented me while we were playing tag! And I thought, maybe our team training is really working!

Yeah, I can feel the effects of our practice too. I guess the older students know what they're doing!

Yeah! I feel better about it now!

So, I've come up with a training program for each of us to help overcome the issues we identified during joint training!

Ohhh! I see! So those are the muscles you train to keep running for a long time! This is... so helpful!

All right, let's start with the exercises that are on everyone's programs!

Oooooh, that was tough!

Whew! Ah, my thighs are shaking! Mm, feels like I got a good workout!

Pant, pant, pant, pant...

You're doing great, Bright! Keep it up at your own pace, okay?

Okay! Gulp... pant...

...Wait, is her bike set to gradually increase the resistance over time?

Huh? Now you mention it, it does look like she's pedaling harder than before...

I knew she meant business when I saw her decked out in all that compression clothing, but this...

Don't work yourself too hard, Bright!

Sorry I'm taking so long... But... this is only the beginning.

Starting from tomorrow, I've planned on making my training sessions even longer, so I need to make sure I show up every day and complete my goals properly.

I know you can do it, Bright! All right, l'm gonna do one more set too!

They're both amazing! Come on, Tannhauser, let's keep at it too!

Huff, huff, huff...

Okay, I think I've still got more in me! I'll add ten more laps to my daily run...

...But that's still not enough, is it?

Spe and Bright are working so hard. If I don't work even harder than them, I'll get left behind.

Hmm... If only I knew a way to make my training more efficient, like Bright and her compression wear.

...I know! That super drink I saw on Umatter the other day! It's apparently even more effective than drinking protein before your workout!

I'll give it a shot! I've got to try whatever I can if it'll help!

Whaaat?! Tannhauser got hives and has to rest, doctor's orders?!

Yeah... She drank something iffy last night, and after that intense training, maybe it was all a bit too much for her.

I hope she's okay... Oh, shall we all go and check on her together?

Well, we could... but I think we should continue our training!

With the limited time we've got, I think the best thing to do right now is focus all our attention on practicing.

Between us, we can make up for Matikanetannhauser's absence. By reducing each of our individual times, we can create a big lead!

If we create a lead... I see! You're right, that sounds like a better way to help her.

I agree! But judging by the joint training we did, we still have a long way to go if we want to win. It's gonna be tough.

No matter how hard it is, where there's a will, there's a way. Ryan, may I ask for a revision of our training program?

Okay! Let's sit over there and talk it over.

(As things stand, it's clear that I am still very far behind everyone. I must do everything possible to catch up to them!)

(I've got to win and make Big Sister Ryan proud!)

"Don't worry about the triathlon. Take all the time you need to rest up."

Tannhauser! We've come to visit you!

Oh?! Is that you, Kita? Come on in.

Sorry to bother you as you're resting. Oh? I heard you broke out in hives, but...

Ah, it's nothing too serious. Just a little rash on my back and belly. Once the symptoms wear off, I can come back to practice.

That's a relief! So, you can still compete in the triathlon!

Yeah. I'm lagging behind now that I've had some time off though. I'll have to practice even harder once I get better.

Please don't overdo it! Your teammates are practicing enough to make up for your absence.

They are?

The three of them said they'll do everything they can! I'm sure they're training on your behalf too!

So take all the time you need to make a full recovery.

Yeah! On that note, we'll get going. I'll leave some snacks for you next to the desk, okay?

Right... Everyone's pulling together. In that case, I'll do what I can too!

I don't think so. I'm inviting you because I've seen how good you are at gathering information and applying your research to training.

That's it!

Pant, pant, pant. My acceleration's still too slow... One more lap!

Huh? Are you doing some extra training too?

Yeah! Are you about to start too? I thought you were practicing with your team just now.

Hehe. Well, training with them was so exciting, I wanted to run some more!

Exciting, you say?

Just now, when we all ran, it was sooooo close at the end! It was so fun fighting everyone to get in front!

I got so into it, I felt like I had it in me to keep going forever! That's kinda weird, isn't it?

No, I think it's great! You have a special way of seeing things. You're amazing!

...As for me, I'm not sure I've been running at the same level as everyone else on my team. It made me realize I can't afford to skip out on extra practice.

I don't want to fall behind... That's what's keeping me here.

Hmm... Aren't we kinda the same? You and me are both practicing because we want to get better.

In your case, it's because you have teammates that you want to surpass. I think that's wonderful!

And I'm the same. I have people I want to surpass too. No matter what the race, I want to win against everybody!

Someone I want to win against...

...

Oh, I get it now! You're right! It's not such a bad thing to compare myself to others!

Yeah! You can all help each other grow!

Yeah... You know what? You're right!

This is it! Tannhauser, you feeling A-OK?

Yes. Sorry I was out of action for a while, but thankfully I'm all healed up now and ready to go!

Today I mean business! Ei, ei, mun!

Hehe, that's the spirit! But we don't want you getting any nosebleeds, okay?

Oh... yeah, I forgot. Inhale... Exhale...

...Spe, you okay?

Uhhh, I-I-I'm super nervous! How am I supposed to go out there like this?!

If you're finding it hard to calm down, how about trying some visualizations? For example, you could imagine winning the grand prize and having the all-you-can-eat buffet!

Oh yeah! The buffet! Let's see, there's... seafood cocktail, roast beef...

Ooh! There's all kinds of potatoes in the German cottage fries too! And they've got acqua pazza...

Hehe, that seems to have done the trick. Everyone, let's make sure we get that buffet! We're in this to win it!

Oh, I brim with delight when I imagine this auditorium packed with spectators! Is everyone ready?

Uhhh, uhhh... I-I-I guess... No! I always forget something. I-I'm just gonna check one more time!

We're all meeting at the venue, right? I'm heading off now.

Ah, Ayabe!

Um, thank you for doing the triathlon with me. I feel really glad that I get to be on such a great team.

Is this the time to be getting all soppy? We haven't competed yet.

I know! I'll give it everything I've got! I promise I won't let you down!

Sigh... You're way too serious about this. It's not like it's your responsibility to win.

It's not about responsibility. I want my running to make you all proud.

I see.

Hey! Ayabe, Top Road! We're going to head out now too. See you there!

Okay! Let's win this together!

Warm spring sun and clear blue skies are here to welcome the long-awaited Tracen Academy Team Triathlon!

There are eight teams competing today, making for thirty-two athletes in total. Our competitors are currently ready and waiting on the academy grounds.

Wow! There's so many spectators! All this excitement's getting my heart pounding!

Lots of television cameras, too! My father said he would be watching from his office!

Whoa, the lineup on Team Bakushin is insane! What, are they going all out for the special award or something?!

Ugh, they have some total newbies on their team, though. It's nice they wanna take part and all, but they better not get in the way.

...

Keh heh heh... How exciting it is to think that all their jabbering will turn into bitter cries of agony! Right?!

Quite! When the audience witnesses how I shatter the limits of stamina, they will gasp in astonishment!

Haaah ha ha ha! Haaah ha ha ha!

Heh... Hahaha!

Kita, I know we can hold our own out there. Just think, we put up a good fight against our seniors in the joint training, didn't we?

Oh yeah... We even won!

We've proven we stand a chance. So let's hold our heads up high!

Yeah! Let's be confident and go all out! We'll show them what we've got!

Now for the explanation of today's course. The starting point is Bubblyland. All four segments are connected by a relay, ending at Tracen Academy.

The first segment is swimming. Athletes must make a round trip through a wave pool. Adaptability will be key!

Second is the mission run. Athletes will have to complete a mission before they can start running in this segment.

The mission has just been announced! Runners will have to add their own flavoring to a plain sports drink!

The third segment is cycling. The route has many ups and downs, eventually splitting into three paths that traverse a mountain.

The shortest but steepest route goes over the mountain. The riverside route is the longest and goes around the mountain. The middle route has rolling hills.

All three routes converge on the mountain's downward slope. Route selection will be crucial in this segment.

And the finale, the anchor leg, is running! This segment is a circuit on Tracen Academy's turf track!

The winning team will be presented with a plaque from our sponsor and a luxurious prize. There will also be a special prize for the most exciting team!

Prepare for the fierce battle that these Tracen Academy students are about to fight! The start of the Team Triathlon is moments away!

Why if it isn't Team Centurial and Team Muscle.

Centurial is a pretty cool name. It sounds kinda dystopian, like a gathering of demons or something.

I wanted to name it "The Centurial Overlord and Her Delightful Companions," but that was too long to register.

Some of my teammates were of the opinion that "Overlord" was too weighty. And lo, after some parley, we concluded that "Centurial" was passable.

Um, guys... I think it's about to begin.

Hey, Spe, don't act like this doesn't concern you! What even is your team's name?! At least try to be creative! Listen, naming is...

And there's the starting gun! The athletes spring into action, but Gold Ship has yet to depart!

Gold Ship appears to be in no hurry to start! Can she recover from this setback?

Wahoo! I knew a kickboard would be perfect for surfing the waves! Behold! My flawless balance!

In this long lost utopia... allow the Overlord to breathe new life into a paradise that faded along with the bubbles.

Now, feast your eyes! The Overlord and her bubbly fairies grace this tide with their luster!

What's this? In a strange turn of events, T.M. Opera O and Gold Ship are posing on their kickboards!

Wow, I'd love to try surfing myself someday!

The manufacturer sponsoring this competition has allowed the use of certain equipment, kickboards included, however...

The two athletes on kickboards have not made any forward movement! They are simply seesawing on the waves!

My, how very uncouth. The beauty of my pose lies in its stillness.

So it's come down to a duel between you and me! That special prize is mine!

Sh-should I do something too?

Waaah! Just keep swimming normally, Spe!

After a chaotic start, we're already nearing the end of the first part. The leaders of the pack are preparing to pass their batons!

T.M. Opera O and Gold Ship, who were far behind, are now closing the gap with impressive flutter kicks! Neither is letting go of their kickboard!

The first athlete to leave the water is Special Week! She heads toward her team's second racer, Matikanetannhauser!

The race is moving on from swimming to running. Athletes head to the kitchen to start on their mission!

Each has the base for a plain sports drink. Their job is to flavor it with the ingredients at their disposal and hand it off to the third athlete in their team!

Here it is! My list of nutritious foods! Now to see which ones are good for keeping tiredness at bay!

I want an ingredient that relieves tiredness, and one that enhances endurance too. Soybean and lemon sounds like a tasty combo...

A simple honey and lemon mix will do. I'm not wasting any time on making this!

Wow, look at all these ingredients! Which ones should I use together? ♪ Prunes and cinnamon... Ooh, what's that?

Admire Vega has finished making her drink and is heading to the next checkpoint! Satono Diamond follows closely behind her!

Uhh, uhh... Okay, just gotta add this bifido-something yogurt and I should be all done! Then finally, a taste test!

Now at the second checkpoint, the next set of athletes is standing by. Admire Vega is in the lead and is expected to come into view any minute now!

Ahhh, Ayabe's in the lead?! I can't mess this up! I can't mess this up!

Pant, pant... There it is... the checkpoint!

Ngh... Haaaaah!

Grrr... Oh no you don't! Haaah!

Admire Vega and Satono Diamond race toward their teammates, leaving the competition in the dust! Both make a swift baton exchange!

Bakushin Bakushiiiin!

Sakura Bakushin O's bike accelerates like a rocket! It looks like she'll catch up to Meisho Doto!

Ryaaan! I'm sorry I'm late!

It's okay! I've got it from here! Keep going, just a bit longer!

Now halfway through the third leg, we're approaching the mountain crossing. From here the route splits into three. Will athletes choose the short but steep mountain climb...

...The lengthy detour around the mountain, or something in the middle? Leader Meisho Doto opts for the medium hill route.

Meisho Doto has dismounted and taken off her helmet. It looks like she's stopped to drink the sports drink she received from her teammate!

Gulp, gulp... Ahhh! It's so nice and sweet!

Hehe, I could finish this up right now! It'll come out faster if I squeeze the bottle a little! Ei!

Hyah?!

I-I spilled it... Aww... now my hands are all sticky...

B-b-bees?! WAAAHHH! LEAVE ME ALOOONE!

Owie!

Ngh... My bike! WAAAAAH! The wheel came off! It's b-b-brokeeen! WAAAAAH!

Sakura Bakushin O has opted for the riverside detour. A surprising choice, considering long distances are not her specialty!

Pant... pant... I've made it... halfway. I'm not that tired... It's just downhill from here...

Hng?! Is this flavor... sakura mochi?! She knows what I like! Hehe, now I'm powered up!

Pant... pant... It gets even steeper from here, huh? Although this is the shortest route, the others might still widen their lead if I'm slow on the way up.

Gulp, gulp. Is this... an edamame shake?! It's refreshing, though. Tastes like edamame, yogurt, lemon...

Ohh I get it, Tannhauser made me a recovery drink! She must've been well-prepared for any mission that came her way.

I won't let her efforts go to waste! I'm gonna climb this mountain and close the gap!

Ahhh... Th-the more I try to f-fix my bike, the worse it gets! What do I do, what do I do?! Hnggg...

But... I... I have to go... Top Road is waiting for me! I've gotta keep going! I've gotta keep going! I can do thiiis!

Who will be first to arrive at the third checkpoint and meet our anchors? The cheers are gradually approaching! In the lead is...

Sakura Bakushin O! It's Sakura Bakushin O! Behind her, Mejiro Ryan and Meisho Doto are in hot pursuit!

Baku... shin... Baku... shin! Bakushin... SHIIIIIN!

Heh... I didn't have to pedal much on the way down... Seems that saved me some energy!

You didn't pedal on the way down... Oh! Our unicycle training! So that's what it was for!

Nah, I just wanted to ride unicycles. But that works too! Go on, Bakushin O!

Yes! Despite everyone's fears, I took on the challenge of the longest route, and I made it through victorious!

There is no obstacle I cannot overcome! Bakushin, Bakushin, Bakushin, Bakushin, BAKUSHIIIIIN!

RYAAAN! KEEP AT IT!

I will! My legs feel lighter than usual! Time to show what I'm made of!

RAAAAAH!

Go Ryan!

WAAAAAH! TOP ROOOAD! Sob, sob... WAAAHAAA!

It's okay, Doto! You're almost there!

First in is Sakura Bakushin O! She's kept her lead and passed the baton to Kitasan Black!

The final part, running. Our anchors are on their last few laps! In the lead is Team Bakushin's Kitasan Black!

(Bakushin O gave me the lead.)

(She took on the exhausting cycling leg. Not only that, she chose the longest route, the one everyone said she's least suited to, and she finished it!)

(I... I won't give up either! I believe I can do it!)

Kita picked up her pace! If she widens the gap any farther, she might just outpace everyone!

No, this drama's climax is yet to come. Top Road will surely put on a dazzling performance in the last scene!

Kitasan won't shake us off that easy. I know Bright will get a grip on her!

(According to Matikanetannhauser, Kitasan has high endurance and a sharp turn of foot. It'll be tough if she gets any farther ahead.)

(But I have to stay in control of my own pace. Which means...)

(Bright sped up! It's still early for me, but I can't get left behind!)

Mejiro Bright and Narita Top Road have picked up the pace! They're gradually closing the gap!

Huh?!

(They're... getting closer!)

Huff, huff, huff, wheeze!

(I will catch up! I will break away!)

(They believe in me, Opera O, Doto, and Ayabe. I'll show them they're right!)

(This is for Big Sister Ryan!)

RAAAAAH! DAAAAAH!

Mejiro Bright and Narita Top Road are closing in on Kitasan Black! Can she hold out?!

(Got to keep my lead! Keep running! Faster, until the end!)

(I'm gonna finish this!)

RAAAAAH!

Kitasan Black accelerates again! Will it be enough?!

Kitasan Black crosses the finish line! She's won it! Kitasan Black wins!

The Tracen Academy Team Triathlon goes to Team Bakushin!

Bright, you came so close.

Yes. I suppose I'll bring home glory next time.

Hm? You seem kind of happy about it.

I am. Until I took part in this contest, I felt a little inferior compared to the others.

But... it was a really close race! A little bit longer, and I think I could have done it!

Through our training and friendly rivalry, I grew even stronger than I could've imagined!

Sounds like it was worth it, then. I'm glad!

It most certainly was! Special Week, Matikanetannhauser... Thank you very much.

During practice and the real contest, I couldn't have done it without you.

No way! I haven't done anything for you to thank me!

You gave us an awesome head start, Spe. And Tannhauser, your drink gave me a great energy boost!

Whaaa! So it worked! Being on this team has given me some courage and confidence!

Yeah! It was really fun getting to train and compete with this team!

Teehee! On that note, I'd like to invite you to a reception at the Mejiro estate. We'll prepare an all-you-can-eat banquet! ♪

Hey.

...Hi. I didn't make it in time...

I-i-it's all my fault, sorryyyyy! Even though Ayabe came in first, I had to go and mess it all up with my clumsiness!

Huh?! It wasn't your fault, Doto! I should've worded that better. Sorry!

That's right! We made a scene like no other! And we have the special award to prove it!

We put on a fantastic intermedio show!

With any luck, the main story will be even more enthralling!

Yeah!

...Once was more than enough.

Haaah ha ha! Only the goddesses of fate know what's in store for us! Now, I'll see you later. Ciao!

Oh, w-w-wait, Opera O!

(...I want to be worthy of you all, as your friend and rival, now and forever!)

(Above anyone else, I want to win against you all!)

Kitasan, Satono, congratulations on your win! You're amazing for winning against the older students!

Hehe. See, you don't know until you try!

You two... are truly amazing! W-watching you... brought a tear to my eye!

You really inspired me! I'm going to push myself to try new things too!

Whoa, whoa, whoa! You did it, Kitasan! That was a wicked upset you pulled out there!

You ran a fantastic race! What a triumphant show of spirit!

Thank you! I was so absorbed in the moment, I'm not even sure how I ran myself...

Yep, leave it to good ol' passion to turn the tables! All right, let's toss you up in the air! You over there, join us!

Hehe. They did a number on you, huh? But it's sweet of them to celebrate with us!

Yeah! It reminded me of something, how I felt the first time I saw Teio race.

Her running inspired me. It made me want to run just like her!

So, has today brought you one step closer to your goal?

Yes, thanks to our older teammates! They've given me so much courage!

Next time, I want to inspire others with my own strength. Just like Teio, my dad, and our teammates, I want to make everyone smile with my running!

And I want to run with everyone again too!

Does that include me?

Of course it does! Let's keep running together!

"You know, Mom, Tracen Academy is a wonderful place."

"There are soooo many athletes I'd love to race against here! Achieving my goal won't be easy, but that's also what makes it exciting!"

"I can't let myself fall behind. Because I'm going to become the best Umamusume in Japan!"

That's it! I'm gonna do this!