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From www.castlebar.ie General A couple of weeks ago, whilst at home, I heard Yasuyuki Ozeki’s story on the Gerry Ryan show.
In 1998 Yasuyuki cycled from Japan to Ireland on his bike “Rocket Boy One” – travelling a total of 12,935 km in 6 months. Not content with completing this epic journey, he was now in Ireland and about to undertake another challenge, cycling around Ireland (on Rocket Boy One) and climbing 7 Peaks in 7 Weeks, carrying his bike on his back up each mountain (find out more http://www.yazsan.net )
Enthralled by his story I bought his book Against the Wind (Pedalling for a pint from Japan to Ireland), read it in 2 days and just had to meet this guy.
So with a couple of friends (Harry Thompson & Brian Duggan) I headed for Croagh Patrick on Thursday 30th September to meet the great man.
We didn’t start climbing until 11:30 am, so Yasuyuki had a head start, but we met him just as he was on his way down the mountain. He loves Guinness and so naturally we came prepared with a few cans to help him on his way!
Yasuyuki continued his journey, arriving in Castlebar at 11:30 am on Friday morning.
I met him at Togher Tyres (Bridgestone are his sponsors) and after a short time there we went to Castle Bookshop where he signed copies of his book Against the Wind.
Yasuyuki completes his 7 Peaks in 7 Weeks challenge on Friday 15th October. He really is an inspiration and his book is a fantastic read – definitely not to be missed.
In Yasuyuki’s own words “Pedal On” – good luck Yas from all your friends in Mayo! © Copyright 2003 by www.castlebar.ie and the author |
