This is the story of John, a first-time rider taking part in the Knights in White Lycra (KIWL) annual 500km charity bike ride across Japan.

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Established shortly after the 2011 Tohoku triple disaster, KIWL has been raising funds for good causes ever since. In recent years, the group has partnered with Mirai no Mori, supporting children from disadvantaged backgrounds by giving them access to meaningful, confidence-building outdoor experiences.

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In 2024, we were looking for a way to convey the sheer scale of commitment behind the KIWL ride. Each year, more than 50 riders invest months of training, time and personal energy simply to be ready to take part. When we asked KIWL if there was a story that might help bring this effort to life, they suggested John, a Tokyo-based business owner, AC/DC cover band lead singer, and first-time rider.

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John had committed to going from “couch to 500,” preparing himself physically and mentally to ride 500km over four days. We began with an interview in his living room, before asking him to document his training journey through short video diaries. These very honest moments became a core part of the film.

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When the ride began, we joined the convoy, spending four days tracking John and the other riders across Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures by car, using GPS trackers and a drone to follow their progress. It was a big logistical challenge, but more than that, it was deeply inspiring to witness the collective effort, determination and support that defines the ride.

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On the final day, we also had the opportunity to meet some of the young people supported by Mirai no Mori. Seeing the confidence and social skills they gain through repeated outdoor experiences made the connection between effort and impact tangible: long months of training and fundraising translated directly into life-changing opportunities for others.

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We’re grateful for the chance to work on projects like this. Made possible by the support of our regular clients, non-profit work allows us to use our skills to give something back, to document commitment, community, and the quiet power of following through.