Yesterday, we held an on-site meeting to prepare for the upcoming GCR ASUKE.
We left Nagoya a little early and started the day with a ride along a portion of the route together with our head chef, Chris DiMinno, and the owner of Aliva.
While we have been in constant contact with them about this Gourmet Century via email and Skype, I think sharing time together in the saddle really helped us align our vision for the big day.
This Gourmet Century Ride, which connects cycling and food, is made possible not just by them, but by the cooperation of so many others.
We are going to give it our all to ensure everyone has a great time on the ride!
Oh, and just as a reminder, it will be a hot ride, so please don't forget to bring two water bottles.
Also, on the day of the Gourmet Century Ride, Saturday, June 6th, an event called "Tankororin Candle Night" will be held in Asuke. The event features "Tankororin"—cylindrical lanterns made of bamboo baskets and Japanese washi paper—that illuminate the historic streets of Asuke to create a nostalgic summer night atmosphere. It's just a short walk from the Gourmet Century dinner venue, "Hyakunenso," but we will also have a shuttle bus available on the day, so why not bring a yukata and check it out?
I’ve been talking quite a bit about this weekend's event, but as we head into the season with stronger sunlight, we’ve just received a shipment of eyewear from SMITH.
Smith Optics “PIVLOCK Asana” ¥21,000 (excl. tax)
Smith creates eyewear that excels in a variety of outdoor fields, from cycling to winter sports and fishing. Out of their vast lineup, the PIVLOCK Asana is the model that strips away everything unnecessary to focus solely on the performance required for bike riding.
It comes with three types of lenses: Platinum Mirror lenses (a gray base with a mirror coating), Smith's proprietary Ignitor lenses (which sharpen contrast for better depth perception), and Clear lenses suitable for cloudy weather or night riding. Naturally, lens changes can be performed quickly.
Smith Optics “BAZOO”
Crystal Tan Wood/Red Mirror: ¥15,600 (excl. tax)
Black/Platinum Lens: ¥15,000 (excl. tax)
This model features the slider system Smith has used for over 15 years, allowing for easy lens replacement. With its large front frame that covers your eyebrows and thicker temples, it has a design that blends into city life, yet the uncompromising frame curvature and two sizes of included nose pieces provide an outstanding fit.
Smith Optics “LOWDOWN”
Impossibly Black: ¥13,000 (excl. tax)
Matte Black Fade Tortoise: ¥13,000 (excl. tax)
Featuring Smith's original 60s-inspired shape, this simple model is perfect for daily use. However, it's also light and features rubber grips on the temple ends, making it suitable for sports as well. A casual design like this expands your wardrobe options, so I highly recommend it.
Of course, when it comes to SMITH, we cannot forget this either.
Smith Optics “Overtake Helmet” ¥33,000 (excl. tax)
An innovative helmet from an eyewear-first manufacturer.
It’s a bit pricey, but it protects your most precious asset: your life. In addition to its unique form, the fit is excellent, so please come by the store to try it on.
Notice regarding business hours for the Gourmet Century Ride Asuke
Thursday, June 4th: Closed
Friday, June 5th – Sunday, June 7th: Closed for the event
We will resume normal business hours on Monday, June 8th. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Also, please note that orders placed on the Webshop during this period will be processed starting Monday, the 8th.