The Amazing Race Season 37 Episode 2
In Episode 2 of The Amazing Race Season 37, titled “Very Strong Warrior Energy,” the remaining teams continued their global journey, departing from Hong Kong to Osaka, Japan. The episode showcased strategic decisions, cultural challenges, and the season’s first Intersection, culminating in the elimination of one team.
Flight Strategies and Tensions
Teams began by securing flights to Osaka. Carson & Jack, along with Brett & Mark and Ernest & Bridget, opted for a flight with a layover in Taipei, arriving at 6:05 AM. Other teams chose direct flights landing at 6:35 AM, while the remaining teams were booked on a flight arriving at 7:55 AM. Notably, Pops & Jeff and Melinda & Erika managed to get seats on the earlier direct flight, leaving Bernie & Carrigain and Scott & Lori on the later flight. This led to disagreements between Bernie & Carrigain regarding their flight strategy.
Intersection and Roadblock: Taiko Drumming
Upon arrival in Osaka, teams proceeded to Tsūtenkaku Tower and then to Namba Hatch, where they encountered the Intersection. This twist required teams to pair up and complete tasks together. At the Roadblock, one member from each paired team had to learn and perform a taiko drum routine. The task proved challenging, with some teams taking multiple attempts to succeed. For instance, Ernest and Mark struggled, completing the task on their 17th attempt, causing frustration and delays.
Detour: Mochi Making or Mawashi Tying
After the Intersection, teams faced a Detour choice: “Mochi” or “Mawashi.” In “Mochi,” teams had to pound sweet rice to create 12 mochi balls, a task requiring strength and precision. In “Mawashi,” teams learned to properly tie a traditional sumo wrestling belt on each other. Most teams opted for “Mawashi,” finding it less physically demanding than mochi pounding. Jonathan & Ana completed the “Mawashi” task efficiently, allowing them to maintain their lead.
Pit Stop and Elimination
The leg concluded at the Tahoto Pagoda. Jonathan & Ana arrived first, celebrating their 7th wedding anniversary and winning a trip to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. They were followed by Scott & Lori in second place and Alyssa & Josiah in third. The final moments saw a tight race between Han & Holden and Ernest & Bridget. Ultimately, Ernest & Bridget arrived last and were eliminated from the race.
Episode Placements:
1. Jonathan & Ana
2. Scott & Lori
3. Alyssa & Josiah
4. Carson & Jack
5. Melinda & Erika
6. Courtney & Jasmin
7. Pops & Jeff
8. Bernie & Carrigain
9. Brett & Mark
10. Nick & Mike
11. Han & Holden
12. Ernest & Bridget (Eliminated)
This episode highlighted the importance of strategic planning, adaptability, and effective communication as teams navigated cultural challenges and unexpected twists in their quest to win The Amazing Race. Stay tuned for Episode 3 of the Amazing Race Season 37 next Wednesday at 930 pm est .
