Ep. 16: Imaizumi declares himself the new ace and pushes forward alone during the intense Hakone race.
Aired on February 3, 2015
16
After Naruko’s sacrifice allows Sohoku to catch Hakone, Fukutomi acknowledges their resilience but insists they lack a true ace. Imaizumi claims this title and decides to race recklessly ahead. Makishima holds back Toudou while forcing Fukutomi to chase Imaizumi, who repeatedly accelerates to maintain his lead. Flashbacks reveal Imaizumi’s history with road racing and the Kanzaki family. He believes victory is assured until a medical van retrieves the withdrawn Naruko. Ishigaki collapses and urges Midosuji to continue at full strength. As an ominous wind blows, Midosuji begins his solitary ascent of the final 15 km, setting the stage for the race's conclusion.
Episodes
- Ep. 12 · Izumida's Pride
- Ep. 13 · Sohoku Seniors Rotate Lead as Tadokoro Sprints to Match Shinkai Before Final Climb
- Ep. 14 · Hakone executes a bold final mountain strategy while Kinjou confronts his physical limits and redefines his role within the team.
- Ep. 15 · Naruko's Determination Leads to a Dramatic Fall During the Mountain Climb
- Ep. 16 · Imaizumi declares himself the new ace and pushes forward alone during the intense Hakone race.
- Ep. 17 · Manami races Midosuji while Makashima sends Onoda to assist Imazumi
- Ep. 18 · Manami and Midosuji race ahead while Onoda closes the gap with unwavering discipline
- Ep. 19 · Onoda clings to Midosuji while Imazumi enforces a five-man pace to the finish line
- Ep. 20 · A confrontation takes place between Imazumi and Midosuji in this episode.