Kawaimo Moe, representing Shizuoka, has secured her place for the finals of the inaugural Speed Queen Memorial boat race held at Hamana Lake. This event, part of the Premium G1 series, has been notable not only for its competitive athletes but also for representing local pride and determination.
On February 23, 2025, during the semi-finals, Kawaimo put on an impressive performance, becoming the only contestant from the Shizuoka branch to advance to the finals. With a strong start from the first position, she managed to maintain her lead throughout the race, showcasing her skills and determination.
Reflecting on her achievement, Kawaimo expressed, "I was worried but am glad to have qualified. I wanted to repay the support I received from Hamana Lake's organizers with my performance." This sentiment highlights her commitment not only to her own racing success but also to the fans and organizers who have supported her.
The atmosphere during the semi-finals was electric, with fans crowding the lakeside to cheer for their local champion. Kawaimo felt the weight of their expectations, yet she conveyed confidence, stating, "I’ll work on fine-tuning my performance for the finals to show my best to local fans." This preparation reflects her dedication to living up to the high hopes set by those rooting for her.
Kawaimo is not new to the spotlight; she previously celebrated her first victory here during the All Ladies event last August. With this new opportunity on the horizon, she aims for her first G1 championship, riding on the momentum of her last experience, where she acknowledged her earlier mistakes but is determined to turn those lessons learned to her advantage.
On the cusp of her performance, Kawaimo is making necessary adjustments to her techniques, considering both her past experiences and future aspirations. "I need to focus on refining my technique to not only advance but also to impress the incredible fans supporting me," she noted. This strategies speaks to her tactical approach as she prepares to race against some stiff competition.
Her competitors are formidable. Among them will be seasoned racers such as Hirataka Nana from Kagawa, who has proven her mastery by smoothly transitioning through multiple rounds of the event. Hirataka’s calm execution and strategic sailing have earned her the top position heading to the finals and she emphasizes the importance of consistent performance throughout all rounds.
With expectations high from both herself and her fans, Kawaimo enters the finals scheduled for February 24 with determination. The finals are set to take place on the last day of the three-day racing event, and Kawaimo aims to emerge victorious as the first winner of the Speed Queen Memorial. She understands the significance of this event, not just for herself but for the visibility and representation of female racers on this platform.
"I've trained intensely on the waters of Hamana Lake. It's become my second home, and I know this course like the back of my hand," she said, delving deep to highlight her preparation for the race. The level of commitment she has shown and the hard work invested reflect her ambition to take this accolade home.
Kawaimo's story is more than one of individual triumph; it's one of community and caring. By advancing to the finals, she not only carries her hopes but those of every fan who has cheered her on. The finals promise to be exciting, as Kawaimo faces the greatest challenge of her career so far—one she feels ready to tackle and one she intends to repay by doing her best on the water.
With the final race looming, Kawaimo wraps her dreams of victory, as she focuses her energy on the challenge ahead, unified with her loyal supporters at Hamana Lake. "This is my moment to shine and to prove what I can achieve. I’m ready to give it my all!" she declared, encapsulating the spirit of determination and aspiring greatness.
Her upcoming race will not only aim to crown her as the first Speed Queen of this new premier event but also to solidify her standing within the competitive world of boat racing as she seeks to take the title alongside her local fanfare.