Ishigaki Naoko recently celebrated her remarkable victory at the Girls' Grand Prix 2024 with fans at the Tachikawa velodrome, marking her return to the winner's circle after seven years. The event, held on January 6, 2025, coincided with the Tachikawa site's 73rd anniversary and the G3 Phoenix Prize series, drawing excitement from supporters eager to applaud her achievement.
During the victory announcement, Ishigaki, who races under the 104th cohort, shared heartfelt reflections on her triumph at the Girls' Grand Prix, which took place on December 29, 2024. "I think this victory is not just mine but belongs to everyone who has supported me," she said, addressing the gathered crowd. Her emotional words acknowledged the collective effort of her fans and team, underscoring her commitment to the sport.
"I’m currently training hard for the midnight event at my home bank from January 11 to 13," Ishigaki added, emphasizing her focus and determination as she sets her eyes on future competitions. The atmosphere was electric as she engaged with the fans, who cheered her on with encouragement and praise.
Reflecting on her performance during the race, Ishigaki expressed, "I felt I was able to pedal stronger than ever, especially from the final corner. I remembered all the hard work throughout the year." This victory, she noted, was not just personal but felt as though it belonged to everyone who has supported her during her race career.
With her next event fast approaching, Ishigaki's passion for keirin racing is palpable. She encouraged her fans by saying, "Please continue to support me throughout 2025. I will work hard to make all of you proud." Her resolve to maintain presence and performance levels remains steadfast as she aims to participate well beyond her current successes.
The victory announcement not only celebrated Ishigaki's past achievements but also indicated her ambitions and plans to keep competing, even expressing her comedic goal of competing until she’s 80 years old. This long-term vision not only entertains but also resonates with many, showcasing her dedication to the sport.
Overall, this event was not just about recognition; it symbolized the resilience and the spirit of collective effort within the world of women's keirin racing. The support received at Tachikawa highlighted the significance of community backing, which Ishigaki appreciates immensely. Her future endeavors promise exciting developments as her fans eagerly anticipate her return to the track.