Chereads / Ten Times Investment Rebate System / Chapter 26 - Podium Ceremony

Chapter 26 - Podium Ceremony

"Wait... Nah... wait..." John shouted at his fans who were pulling on him. Suddenly, he felt some information running in his mind with a hard cracking mechanical voice.

[Congratulations to the Host for winning the tournament. Rewards protocol in progress.]

Just as John was thinking about the words of the system, the announcer calmed the already celebrating fans. Actually, the majority were in joy. Ramjar couldn't believe what had happened and could be seen talking to his coach.

The announcer kept announcing the top three: John, Carlos, and Nicko.John dismounted his Honda CBR1000RR-R5-SP, feeling the weight of the moment. Actually, John mixed up in the world of realism.

The crowd's cheers were deafening, and he couldn't help but smile, a mixture of disbelief and pure happiness washing over him. As he walked toward the podium, he glanced over at Carlos and Nicko, both of whom were gracious in defeat, offering nods of respect.

The podium was set up near the main grandstand, a raised platform with three steps, the highest one in the center for the first-place finisher. Banners with the tournament's logo fluttered in the breeze, and the sunlight glinted off the polished metal of the trophies.

Carlos and Nicko took their places on the lower steps, with John standing tall on the top step. The crowd roared its approval, waving flags and banners. The announcer's voice boomed through the loudspeakers, "Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome your top three finishers: in third place, Nicko; in second place, Carlos; and your champion, John!"

As the cheers continued, a group of officials approached with the trophies. They handed the third-place trophy to Nicko, a bronze cup with intricate engravings. Carlos received the silver cup, slightly larger and more ornate.

Finally, the gold trophy, a gleaming masterpiece, was handed to John. It was heavy in his hands, symbolizing not just his victory, but all the hard work and dedication that had led him to this moment. He was also announced as one billion dollars winner. The cheers filled the atmosphere and banners were lit nonstop.

John lifted the trophy high above his head, and the crowd went wild. Cameras flashed, capturing the triumphant moment from every angle. The national anthem of John's home ground began to play, and the flags of the top three finishers were raised behind them. John felt a surge of pride and emotion as he watched his flag ascend the highest.

After the anthem, it was time for the traditional champagne celebration. An official handed each racer a bottle of champagne. John, Carlos, and Nicko grinned at each other, then began shaking their bottles vigorously.

However, with a loud pop, the corks flew off, and streams of champagne sprayed into the air. They laughed and doused each other with the bubbly liquid, the crowd cheering even louder.

"John! John!" The media swarmed around the podium, eager for interviews. Microphones were thrust in his face, and cameras captured his every move. "How does it feel to win your first race?" a reporter asked.

John wiped champagne from his eyes and grinned. "It feels incredible! I couldn't have done it without the most High and all the support from the fans. This victory is for all of you!"

Carlos, standing beside him, added, "John raced brilliantly though this is the first time competing against him. It's been an honor competing with him. Next time, though, I'll be aiming for the top spot!"

Nicko chimed in with a laugh, "Yeah, watch out, John. We're coming for you! Your riding skills somehow seemed extraordinary and tactical but let's hope in the next tournaments the challenge won't be easy. Otherwise, congratulations for making it."

The crowd loved the camaraderie and sportsmanship between the racers. It added to the festive atmosphere, showing that despite the fierce competition on the track, there was mutual respect for it.

As the ceremony continued, the racers were led to a press conference room. The room was packed with journalists from various media outlets, all eager to get the inside scoop. John, Carlos, and Nicko took their seats at a long table, microphones in front of them.

"John, this is your first major victory and the first won trial. How does it compare to your expectations?" a journalist asked.

John leaned forward, his expression earnest. "It's even better than I imagined. The competition was tough being my first attempt in the tournament, and every lap was a challenge. But having fans here that supported me, and knowing that all the hard work paid off, it's just an amazing feeling."

Another reporter asked Carlos about his strategy during the race. "Carlos, you were in the lead for a good portion of the race. What was going through your mind when John overtook you?"

Carlos smiled, "John made a brilliant move. I knew I had to stay focused and keep pushing but honestly, John was good at drifting , especially in tactical corners. It was a great battle, and I learned a lot. I'm already looking forward to the next race."

Nicko was asked about his perspective from third place. "Nicko, you were right there in the mix. How did you find today's race?"

Nicko shrugged good-naturedly. "It was intense! Every turn, every straight was a fight. I'm proud of how I performed, and I'm thrilled to be on the podium with these guys. It's been a fantastic day."

After the press conference, the racers were given a moment to interact with their fans. John was overwhelmed by the number of people wanting autographs and photos. He took the time to sign hats, shirts, and even a few motorcycles, always with a smile and a kind word.

One young fan, eyes wide with admiration, handed John a poster to sign. "You're my hero, John! I want to be just like you someday."

John crouched down to the kid's level, ruffling his hair. "Thank you, buddy. Keep working hard and never give up on your dreams. You can achieve anything you set your mind to."

As the festivities continued, John took a moment to reflect on the day's events. The adrenaline was still coursing through his veins, and he felt an immense sense of satisfaction. The system's voice echoed in his mind, reminding him of the journey he'd undertaken to get here.

[The Host has proven his capabilities. Continue to strive for greatness.]

John smiled, knowing that this was just the beginning. There were more races to be won, more challenges to overcome, and he was ready for them all.

The sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the track. The crowd was still buzzing with excitement, sharing their favorite moments from the race. Families gathered around, some still holding onto the hope that their favorite racers would win the next tournament.

As the day came to a close, John, Carlos, and Nicko shared a moment of quiet camaraderie. They stood together, looking out over the track where they'd battled so fiercely.

"To more races and more memories," Carlos said, raising an imaginary glass."To push each other to be better," Nicko added."To the thrill of the race," John concluded.

With that, they parted ways, each looking forward to the next challenge. John knew that the road ahead would be tough, but he was ready. With his new skills, his unbeatable Honda, and the support of his fans and team, he felt unstoppable.

John walked down from the podium, trophy in hand and the unstoppable fans, John couldn't help but feel grateful. Grateful for the tournament, the victories and meditation of the entire day. Every moment had led him to this point, and he wouldn't have changed a thing.

Suddenly, the announcer was heard clearly from the microphone shouting for John. Instructing fans to calm down it was not yet over. "Where is John AKA 'Jonte'? Wherever you are, you are reminded to visit building B for the cheque confirmation. Kindly avail yourself for the process."