Part track race, part roller derby, part outtake from Power Rangers, Keirin racing is fantasta-magical. That’s my own word, so TM. Keirin means “racing bicycle,” and the first races were run in 1948, purely for the purpose of something to gamble on. Gambling remains one of the main, adjacent activities to the pedaling.
The whole thing is very closely controlled. Racers have to apply for entry to the approved school, and then there is rigorous training that precedes qualification for becoming a pro. A small percentage of those who aspire ever get to race.
This impressionistic video was beautifully and simply shot by fashion photographer Jonathan de Villiers. I hope you enjoy.