Overview of the SSTR 2026 Awards
The SSTR (Sunrise Sunset Touring Rally) 2026 Awards have recently been announced by the SSTR Executive Committee, led by the renowned adventurer Kazama Fukashi. This year, the event attracted an overwhelming number of entries filled with passion and inspiring stories, making it a significant occasion for motorcycle enthusiasts.
The SSTR is a unique touring event that took its first step in 2013, created by Kazama Fukashi. Riders embark on an exhilarating journey starting at dawn along the eastern coastline of Japan, collecting points by visiting various designated waypoints using a specialized GPS system. The ultimate goal is to reach the finish line located at the picturesque Chirihama Nagiwa Driveway in Ishikawa Prefecture by sunset. This event isn't merely a race against time or distance, but a celebration of the joy of motorcycling, allowing each rider to share their unique adventures and stories.
What are the SSTR Awards?
The SSTR Awards are presented to honor the most captivating and distinctive travel stories submitted by riders who participated in that year's event. Winners were selected from a pool of over 14,000 registered participants based on their experiences shared in various categories. The different award categories include:
- - RESULT Category: Based on registration data and results.
- - REPORT Category: Celebrating inspiring accounts from riders.
- - MOVIE Category: Acknowledging videos that showcase the journey.
- - PHOTO Category: Honoring photos capturing amazing moments.
- - I Am! Category: Recognizing participants’ unique themes and passionate endeavors.
Highlights from the Awards
Result Category Winners
Among the notable winners in the RESULT category:
- - Oldest Finisher Award: Kenji Nishimura, aged 87.
- - Youngest Finisher Award: Various participants aged 16, including Yuzu Ishihara and others.
- - Youngest Passenger Award: A special mention goes to 7-year-old Yoshisuke Yamazawa, who rode with his father.
Other awards include points achievements and special recognition for long-distance rides.
REPORT Category Winners
Stories from participants provide heartfelt accounts of their experiences. Tatsuya Sato, who celebrated his 10th participation, described SSTR as a significant milestone in his life, while others shared emotional moments that strengthened family bonds. Among notable participants:
- - Rina Nakayama shared a romantic journey sparked by joining SSTR as a wedding project with her partner.
- - Shinya Ichinose reflected on personal discoveries achieved through solo riding, evoking nostalgia for childhood adventures.
- - Green Tea humorously noted how long-distance riding seems to age a person by ten years.
MOVIE and PHOTO Categories
Winning entries in the MOVIE and PHOTO categories captured the spirit of adventure. Noteworthy names included Ryota Kawakami and Napoli, whose cinematic storytelling matched stunning visuals by participants like Haru and others.
I Am! Category Acknowledgments
The I Am! category resonated with deep sentiments, featuring parents like Yu, who captured the profound bond shared during their adventure with their daughter, and Tori, celebrating a significant relationship milestone with his wife, who he introduced to the world of biking.
Closing Remarks
As SSTR continues evolving, it remains a place of support for adventurers. Each story told contributes to the rich tapestry of personal narratives woven through this extraordinary biking event. The SSTR encourages riders to carve their paths, create unforgettable memories, and explore the beauty of the open road.
For inquiries regarding the SSTR awards or upcoming events, please contact the SSTR Executive Committee at:
- - Address: 9F, Hasebe 2nd Building, 5-21-2 Hiroo, Shibuya, Tokyo, 150-0012
- - Phone: 03-3447-8522
- - Email: [email protected]
- - Website: sstr.jp