Ep. 7: Onoda closes the gap while Imaizumi and Naruko encounter a mysterious third competitor.

7

Onoda advances from sixth to fourth place, erasing a five-minute deficit. The captain observes his resolve and instructs him on the specific cadence required to catch Imaizumi and Naruko. While the recovery van monitors Onoda, the first-years pass the remaining peers, leaving second-years to track the trio. Onoda must gain three more minutes to have a chance. Meanwhile, Imaizumi and Naruko stop to assist an elderly man cheering from the roadside. After he falls, they help him, but he warns them that a third individual is approaching to complicate the race. Realizing this person likely belongs to the bicycle club, they resume cycling. Mr. Pierre watches as they wonder if Onoda or another rider is rapidly gaining ground.