"Ponyta are undisputed speed kings of the grasslands. That's why Dodrio challenged Ponyta, not the other way around," Su Feng explained.
[240 km/h? Is the host exaggerating?]
[For context, some slower planes fly at that speed.]
[Hi, I'm The Flash—Barry Ponyta.]
[Even if Ponyta can handle it, can the rider?]
"Ponyta are highly sensitive Pokémon. They can gauge their rider's comfort and adjust their speed accordingly," Su Feng reassured.
Ponyta nudged Jin, gesturing to its back.
"You want me to ride you?" Jin asked.
Ponyta nodded. Without hesitation, Jin mounted up.
"Mind if I referee?" Xiao Da volunteered, emerging from her tent.
Ponyta and Dodrio exchanged glances, then nodded.
Thrilled, Xiao Da borrowed Jin's knife to carve a starting line into the ground.
"This is the starting point! The route is one lap around the lake and back. Agreed?"
"Neigh~"
"Doduo~"
The competitors approved.
[Wait, look over there! So many Pokémon!]
[Are they coming to cause trouble?]
"No, they're here to watch," Su Feng said.
Like humans, Pokémon loved a good show.
"Roar~"
"Chab~"
"Awoo~"
The Pokémon gathered, buzzing with excitement. Some even joined the race, eager to test their speed.
Xiao Da, now covered in mud, tirelessly marked the route for each participant.
"Heliolisk, Sawsbuck, Zebstrika, Girafarig, Hitmonlee, Boltund, Farfetch'd…" The starting line was a Pokémon melting pot.
Su Feng smiled, watching the diverse yet harmonious group. "This… is what the Pokémon world should be like."
With the race set, Su Feng unveiled his prize: jars of universal Pokéblocks.
"All participants get a reward! Top finishers get extra!"
The Pokémon roared with excitement.
Xiao Da, sweat dripping, raised her hand. "On your marks… Go!"
The Pokémon shot forward like arrows.
Ponyta led the pack, followed by Dodrio and Zebstrika. Sawsbuck and Nidoking trailed behind, while smaller Pokémon like Aipom and Phanpy struggled to keep up.
[They're so fast!]
[The slowest one's still faster than any human.]
[I'm a national athlete. I might keep up with the last Pokémon, but finishing the race? No way.]
Phanpy, realizing it was falling behind, curled into a ball and rolled forward, overtaking several competitors.
Inspired, the others began using speed-boosting moves, turning the race into a thrilling spectacle.