As the Tour de Tohoku draws near, Mapbox Japan, proud to be a Gold Partner of the event, gathered employees and participants for an online rally on Wednesday, August 24th—less than a month before the big day. CEO Toru Takada took the opportunity to rally the team, urging them to "make this a great event" as everyone united in their shared commitment to ensure the event’s success.

CEO Takada: "Don't forget to have fun"

The rally saw thirty participants from inside and outside the company, including engineers working on the “Real-time Map Tohoku Support Project” and riders from Mapbox. One of the highlights of the event was a motivational video, created by a Mapbox employee, that set the tone for the days ahead. As the video played, the room was filled with anticipation as everyone geared up for the upcoming challenge.

Participants also received updates in three key areas: the development of the real-time map, booth operations for the event day, and internal coordination efforts. These progress reports demonstrated the scale and ambition of the project, highlighting the hard work going into the event’s success.

A message from CEO Takada

In his opening remarks, CEO Takada encouraged everyone to remember the importance of both work and enjoyment, stating, “It’s work, but don’t forget to have fun. I want you to engage with the end users and showcase our services." He also took a moment to reflect on the significance of the event's route, which passes through areas devastated by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. Takada emphasized the role of hazard maps and disaster prediction maps in preserving the memory of the disaster, saying, “We are in a position to educate people and prevent these memories from fading."

Project lead Yamazaki: "Pushing the boundaries of digital maps"

Yamazaki Tomotaka, the project lead, shared his enthusiasm for the journey so far. “I've been with Mapbox for two and a half years, and every day I see the potential for new expressions through digital maps,” he said. "This project challenges us to explore new ways to use maps in sports, and we’ve managed to create a more powerful real-time map than ever before. It’s been a long-cherished goal, and we’re excited to make our final push to deliver something special to our users."

Ambassador Akihiko Kusanagi offers encouragement

The rally also introduced Ambassador Akihiko Kusanagi, who has been instrumental in providing technical support for the real-time map. Kusanagi offered words of encouragement, stating, “Working on a project as a team is difficult, but it’s also fun. I’m confident that you will succeed in the actual event.”

Mapbox riders: Determined to cross the finish line

As the day of the event approaches, the eight riders from Mapbox expressed their excitement and determination. “This is my first cycling event, so I’m nervous, but I want to finish strong,” said one rider. Another shared, “It’s my first 100km race of the season, and I want to get my body and legs in shape,” while a third noted, “I only recently bought a bike, so I’m a bit concerned about my stamina, but I know the other riders will encourage each other along the way.”

With the Tour de Tohoku just around the corner, Mapbox Japan is focused on strengthening team unity and completing the project with the same passion and dedication that has guided them so far. Together, they are set to make this event an unforgettable success.