I joined the second race's waiting group, stepping inside the track just a bit. Six students were already lined up at the starting line. Right in the middle, I spotted Hayashido, tightly tying a white headband around his head, looking fully pumped and ready.
"And now, the exciting Borrowed Item Race! Rumor has it that this year's challenge is unusually difficult. Let's see what crazy challenges they have in store! The first race will begin shortly!"
I listened to the announcer until the very end as Mr. Komine raised his arm in preparation. The area fell into a brief silence, tension hanging in the air.
"On your marks...!"
*Bang!*
