Ep. 23: Onoda explains his club membership while Tadokoro and Naruko use tactics before Izumida arrives

23

Onoda attempts to clarify his bicycle racing club membership to his mother, who mistakenly believes he is discussing a new anime series. The narrative then shifts to the present day as the race commences with a parade. Once the competitors leave the city limits, the sprinters begin to excel. Initially, Tadokoro and Naruko lag behind the pack, a strategy designed as psychological warfare. They eventually overtake the other riders to take the lead, suggesting a duel for the title of top sprinter between the two. However, their comfort is short-lived as another sprinter emerges from the rear, swiftly passing all opponents to reach the front. Izumida has entered the race, marking the true start of the intense competition.