In a heartwarming announcement, Kabb's pitcher Kota Imaga has officially become the first ambassador for the beloved local dish, Kasan Udon. The company behind the dish, Kasan, made the announcement on March 26, 2025, marking a significant milestone for both the player and the culinary staple from his hometown of Kitakyushu City in Fukuoka Prefecture.
Imaga, who has openly declared his love for Kasan Udon, expressed his excitement about the new role. "I am truly honored to be appointed as the first official ambassador for Kasan Udon. It brings me great joy to have this connection with a dish that has been a part of my life since childhood," he said. His appointment not only highlights his personal ties to the dish but also represents a unique opportunity to promote local cuisine on a larger scale.
During a recent team event on March 13, Imaga showcased his commitment to Kasan Udon by arranging for players and staff to enjoy the dish at Kanda Myojin, where the Cubs held a prayer for victory. He provided a special dish called 'Meat Goboten Udon' from a kitchen car, ensuring that his teammates could experience the flavors he cherished growing up. "I wanted my teammates to taste the flavors that I grew up with, and they all seemed to enjoy it immensely!" he remarked.
The president of Kasan, Takashi Sato, also shared his enthusiasm regarding Imaga's appointment. "We were very surprised and delighted when Imaga requested to provide meals from our kitchen car. It shows how much he values 'Kasan Udon,' which is known as the soul food of Kitakyushu. This partnership is a wonderful opportunity for us to share the charm of Kasan Udon with more people," Sato stated.
Imaga's connection to Kasan Udon runs deep. He recalls fond memories of enjoying the dish with family and friends, and now, as a professional athlete, he hopes to pass on that joy to others. "I want to continue growing alongside Kasan Udon, which has nurtured me since I was a child. I appreciate all the support and hope to make this partnership a success," he added.
This collaboration comes at a time when local food and culture are gaining more recognition, especially through the lens of sports. As athletes like Imaga embrace their roots, they help to elevate regional dishes, bringing them to a broader audience. The partnership with Kasan Udon is not just about promoting a meal; it's about celebrating the culture and heritage of Kitakyushu.
As the season progresses, fans of both Kabb's and Kasan Udon can look forward to more events and promotions that will highlight this unique partnership. With Imaga at the helm as the ambassador, Kasan Udon is poised to capture the hearts—and appetites—of many.
In an age where food and sports are increasingly intertwined, Imaga's role as the ambassador for Kasan Udon serves as a reminder of the importance of local culture. It emphasizes how food can bridge connections, not just within communities, but also across the world as sports unite diverse groups of people.
As Kabb's continues to make strides in Major League Baseball, Imaga's commitment to his roots and local cuisine showcases a refreshing narrative of pride and authenticity. The story of Kasan Udon, as told through Imaga's experiences, is one of nostalgia, community, and the joy of sharing beloved flavors with others.
With this partnership, Kasan Udon is set to gain more visibility and appreciation, not only among locals but also among fans and visitors who may be introduced to this delicious dish for the first time. Imaga's ambassadorship could very well position Kasan Udon as a must-try culinary experience for anyone visiting Kitakyushu or following Kabb's this season.
In conclusion, as Kota Imaga embraces his role as the first official ambassador for Kasan Udon, he not only promotes a dish that holds sentimental value but also fosters a sense of community and cultural pride. This partnership is a testament to the power of food in connecting people and celebrating local traditions, making it a noteworthy chapter in the narrative of sports and gastronomy.
