“For this episode, Francois linked up with Japanese veteran rider Masashi Itani. Stylish backwheel rider originally from Kobe and now residing in Tokyo, He has been riding for over 20 years. Retired from riding contests, He is now a judge, works with Kotaro at Motel works and at the flatland school. They discuss his start, influences, travels, competitions, the Japanese scene, what the future has in store and so much more. “
Cool! Masashi is a mensch. It’s gotta be pretty great to have a long-term job that you can tolerate and that will support your outside pursuits. Reminds me of my parent’s generation in the US where they still had time for regular vacations and reading/education. And he can stay in the scene, be with friends, judge, teach, and maintain his vision of riding. As hard as i’m sure it was to hold down his full-time job while staying a high-level rider, it definitely looks like it was a smart move. PROPS