◆ Seibu Lions Pacific League: Seibu vs. Rakuten Eagles (3rd, Belluna Dome)

Kota Hirahara (43), a sports commentator for Sports Hochi, who won nine G1 races including the 2024 Japan National Keirin Championship and retired from active competition at the end of May last year, threw out the ceremonial first pitch at Seibu Lions-Rakuten Eagles game on the 3rd.

For Hirahara, who took to mound wearing the uniform of the S-class S-rank, the highest rank in the world of keirin (bicycle racing), this was the first time he had ever held a hardball. "I bought a ball and played catch with my kids. My shoulder is ready," said Hirahara, and the ball he threw from his right arm went outside to Rakuten Eagles 's leadoff hitter, Nakajima. It bounce once and landed in the mitt of Seibu Lions 's catcher, Kojima.

Hirahara, who seemed to enjoy himself, raising his right hand to appeal to the fans, smiled and said, "It reminded me of when I was a player, being the center of attention. For the ceremonial first pitch, I was able to throw it just like I practiced, making sure not to hit the opposing batter. I think it was good publicity for the '1st Hirahara Kota Cup,' which starts on the 9th."

This ceremonial first pitch was held as a special event for the "Seibu-en Keirin 1st Hirahara Kota Cup Night Race," a sponsored match to liven up the 76th Anniversary Commemorative Keirin G3 "1st Hirahara Kota Cup," which will be held at Seibu Lions Seibu Lions en Keirin Stadium for four days from April 9th to 12th. Hirahara said, "There will also be talk shows and prediction sessions, so I would like to make sure it is a great success," and encouraged people to come to Seibu Lions Keirin Stadium, which is close to Belluna Dome.