The annual KIWL 500:5000 Challenge takes place from November 1st to 30th 2026, with participants challenged to ride at least 500kms and/or climb 5,000 meters of elevation during the month, using a GPS activity tracker. Ride anywhere, any time, on your own or in a group, at your own pace, any ability is welcome. All you have to do is keep a record of your rides and submit them at month-end to show completion of the challenge.

You will be entered into a fantastic prize draw if you achieve either discipline. You will be entered twice if you achieve both!

You could win a wonderful hotel experience for two at the ANA Holiday Inn Resort in Karuizawa.

Other great prizes, including Castelli online store vouchers!

More importantly, 100% of your participation fee will support our chosen charity YouMeWe NPO who provide digital education and a support network for children forced to live in institutional care.

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How Do You Join? It's easy:

1. Make a ¥5,000 (or USD40.00) donation to YouMeWe NPO, as your participation fee.
2. Register your participation HERE
3. Ride as much as possible in October! Rides up to midnight on October 31st JST will be included)
4. Keep a record of your activities on a tracker of your choosing, and submit them at the end of the event to prove completion. This can be emailed to this link HERE

Winners are announced in December, only residents of Japan are eligible for prizes. Achievers of either or both disciplines will be entered into the prize draw.

FOOTNOTE

All participants take part at their own risk. KIWL and its members are not responsible for any injury or accident which occurs during the event. Please take the necessary precautions you would ordinarily do on all your cycling activities. ALL participants should ensure their bicycle insurance in Japan is valid and provides adequate protection. The event is not insured.‍‍‍