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Ryunosuke Kishi, a BMX racing athlete, is a recipient of the second JPF Scholarship.

My interest in cycling began when I participated in a Strider bike race as a child, and I later started BMX racing. Currently, I am striving to balance my studies and my sport with my goal of winning a medal on the world's highest stage.

In this interview, we spoke with him about the appeal of BMX, his passion for the sport, and what he learned through the scholarship program.

"I love the feeling of cutting through the wind while riding."

—What do you like about BMX?

Kishi-san:
What I like most about BMX is riding fast.

When you're riding at speed, it feels like you're cutting through the wind, and when you're jumping, you can feel the wind as you fly smoothly. That feeling is really exhilarating, and I think riding fast is a major appeal of BMX.

"I want to aim even higher."

—What was the reason you decided to seriously pursue BMX?

Kishi-san:
There wasn't any particular trigger, but I've been enjoying riding ever since I was a child.

As I continued, I came to realize that BMX was all I had, and quitting was never an option. The desire to aim higher naturally grew stronger, and that's why I'm still competing today.

The goal is to win a medal on the world's most prestigious stage.

--What are your current goals?

Kishi-san:
My ultimate goal is to win a medal on the world's most prestigious stage.

To achieve that, I still lack the necessary skills. I want to keep practicing every day, improve step by step, and work hard to become even faster.

The range of activities expanded thanks to the scholarship.

—Please tell us your honest feelings when you were selected for the JPF scholarship.

Kishi-san:
First of all, I was simply happy.

Money is absolutely essential for continuing to compete, so I was truly grateful for the support I received.

Another significant change was that participating as a scholarship recipient gave me the opportunity to contribute to society, not just through my sport.

Bringing the appeal of BMX to more people.

—What were some of the benefits of being a scholarship recipient?

Kishi-san:
I had the opportunity to help out at an event at PPC (PIST6 PUMPTRACK CHIBA).

Up until now, I haven't had many opportunities to introduce BMX to the general public or let them see me ride, but I hope that through this event, people will realize how amazing BMX is, or that it will inspire them to start competing in the sport.

I hope that my activities will help to further energize the entire cycling world.

I want to use this to my advantage in both academics and athletics.

—How do you plan to use the scholarship?

Kishi-san:
I believe this scholarship program is a great way to support students in balancing their studies and athletic pursuits.

In my studies, I want to learn knowledge that will be useful for my future dreams and in my sport, and then apply that learning to my athletic performance. I also want to broaden my horizons by utilizing the perseverance and patience I have cultivated through my athletic activities in my studies.

Things I valued when balancing academics and other things

—Could you tell us about the difficulties you faced in balancing athletics and academics?

Kishi-san:
There were times when I had to be away from school for extended periods due to overseas trips or other reasons, making it difficult to find time to focus on my studies.

During that time, I studied on my own, with assignments and guidance from my teachers. After returning to Japan, I continued my studies with the support of my teachers, striving to balance both athletics and academics.

To the children who are working hard at BMX

--Finally, do you have a message for the children who are working hard at BMX?

Kishi-san:
First and foremost, I think it's important to enjoy yourself to the fullest.

Rather than becoming so engrossed in the competition that you forget how fun it is, it's important to first fall in love with BMX and enjoy it. I believe that feeling will ultimately lead to growth.

Please enjoy yourself while working hard towards your goals.

The Japan Cycling Federation (JPF) conducts scholarship programs with the aim of promoting and developing cycling and nurturing the next generation of athletes. We will continue to support the activities of young athletes like Ms. Kishi, who are challenging themselves in competition starting from the enjoyment of cycling.

■Kishi Ryunosuke Profile