We are excited to participate in the 2025 Knights in White Lycra (KIWL) Classic, a ~500km ride with ~4500m total elevation taking place from May 29th to June 1st, 2025. This will be Jad's second time taking on this challenge and Asuka's first. We will be joining 43 other riders who are all dedicated to raising funds for Mirai no Mori (more details below).
This year's event will be especially meaningful as it will take us through the beautiful Kanazawa and Noto Peninsula regions. On Day 3, we will dedicate three hours in the morning time to volunteer in Wajima city, providing support to the local community affected by the devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula on January 1st 2024.
Additionally, from February 15th through the end of the month, we are committed to matching donations up to ¥75,000 (~$500 USD)!
**Ride details:**
- Thursday May 29th 2025: Kanazawa to Kanazawa (loop), approximately 124 kilometers. Elevation: 1380 meters.
- Friday May 30th 2025: Kanazawa to Wajima, approximately 126 kilometers. Elevation: 1245 meters.
- Saturday May 31st 2025: Wajima to Nanao, approximately 100 kilometers. Elevation: 1050 meters.
- Sunday June 1st 2025: Nanao to Kanazawa, approximately 107 kilometers. Elevation: 915 meters.
**Fundraising:**
We aim to raise more than 200,000 JPY (approx. $1300USD) for Mirai no Mori, a nonprofit in Japan that supports abused, neglected, and orphaned children by helping them develop the skills and mindset needed to overcome the challenges of becoming independent at 18. With limited experiential learning opportunities due to Japan’s child welfare system, many children struggle with the sudden transition from care homes to independence, facing difficulties like managing finances, building relationships, and coping with social prejudice and loneliness.
Mirai no Mori’s programs equip children with essential life skills, such as resilience, problem-solving, and communication, to help them navigate these challenges and create a positive future. Through residential camps and day programs tailored to different age groups (5-15 years as campers, 16-18 as Leaders in Training, and 18+ as graduates), children have the opportunity to grow, discover new possibilities, and develop their full potential. With your support, they can achieve self-actualization and a brighter future!
<b>**Resources:**<b>
https://mirai-no-mori.jp/
https://www.kiwl.net/about?tab=history
FACEBOOK: @Mirai No Mori, @Knights in White Lycra
INSTAGRAM: @mirainomori @getfitandgiveback
2024 Fundraising amount: 7,894,935 JPY
2024 KIWL ride video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcdSy1kXJRQ&t=5s</b></b>
