#Japan #Kasa #BREAK BACK #Tosu #LUCENT

BREAK BACK Exhibition in Tosu: A Tennis and Manga Fusion

On April 29 and 30, 2025, the BREAK BACK exhibition was successfully held at Sun Messe Tosu, organized by Wedge Holdings Inc. This event partnered with the "Tennis Soft Tennis Festival in Tosu" and highlighted the popular manga BREAK BACK, currently serialized in Monthly Shonen Champion. The exhibition attracted a diverse range of visitors, all sharing an excitement for tennis and manga.

Throughout the event, attendees were able to explore an exhibition filled with gripping tennis strategies presented through artwork from the manga, learning engaging ways to appreciate the sport. Panels showcasing character photos and dynamic scenarios from the manga sparked interest among even those who had never read it before. The unique blend of sports and visual storytelling endeared many fans, and a special collaboration with their beloved series allowed visitors to receive exclusive Akamu balls, leaving them delighted.

One highlight of the exhibition was the collaboration with renowned creators who illustrated panels featuring characters donned in LUCENT sportswear. Notable names like KASA, the mastermind behind BREAK BACK, and Shinoto, creator of the series Komon nado!, along with 13 other artists contributed their unique styles, which were met with rave reviews from attendees. Participants expressed their appreciation for the combination of tennis apparel and manga artistry, making it a standout feature of the event.

KASA skillfully illustrated Takuma Momose, an athlete under the LUCENT brand, showcasing the synergy between the sports industry and the vibrant world of manga. Additionally, Shinoto's illustrations captivated many with their detailed depictions.

This exhibition was just one of the many fun features of a new product showcasing session organized by Lucent Co., Wedge Holdings' sister company. Lucent, known for manufacturing and selling the top-selling Akamu soft tennis balls and other sports equipment, used this event as an opportunity to showcase their latest offerings, thereby creating a unique cross-promotional environment where manga lovers could also learn about sports products.

At the heart of this event was a collaboration between LUCENT and the character Takuma Momose, an initiative fostered by Wedge Holdings, who acted as intermediaries in establishing this partnership. The connection also aims to encourage events and merchandise creation related to the series at Lucent Tennis Club, which is also operated by LUCENT. By bringing these two worlds together, the exhibition successfully captured the interest of various generations.

The showing at Sun Messe Tosu not only focused on the BREAK BACK series, but also forged connections with a broad audience keen to embrace the sport of tennis. It stands as a testament to the versatility of manga and its cultural importance, reinforcing its relevance and longevity in today's diverse entertainment landscape.

This opportunity provided a platform for interaction between various stakeholders—manga creators, sports enthusiasts, and product manufacturers—demonstrating how events like these can successfully bridge interests and foster creativity. Wedge Holdings is committed to collaborating with more unique contents in the future, aiming to enhance the experiences for manga fans and sports lovers alike.

Event Overview

• - Name: BREAK BACK Exhibition
• - Content: Panels introducing tennis strategies and character showcases
• - Organized by: Wedge Holdings Inc.
• - Collaborators: KASA, Akita Shoten, Lucent
• - Dates: April 29-30, 2025
• - Location: Sun Messe Tosu, 1819 Hontosu-cho, Tosu, Saga Prefecture

About BREAK BACK

BREAK BACK is a tennis manga serialized in Monthly Shonen Champion, telling the story of Saki Kamijo, a former world-ranked female tennis player who, burdened by injuries and debts, takes on the role of coach for an underdog high school team aiming for national tournament participation within a year.

About Wedge Holdings Inc.

Wedge Holdings, committed to filling the world's moments with excitement, combines various business activities ranging from publishing, gaming to media. With experience from collaborating with major publishers and game companies, the company strives to create enjoyable experiences and environments for their audience.