[Sakurai Reika's graduation ceremonial speech on her final handshake event at Makuhari Messe] 2019.08.19 (English)
“I was thinking that entrusting the captain's title to Manatsu would place a heavy burden on her, but I believe that she's a person who would fully accept and take the responsibility. So I'll be leaving it to you from now on.”
“It made me really happy to know that a lot of people came here very early in the morning and stayed up until this late. It was really difficult to hold back the tears during the handshake event today. There were people who came for the first time, those who always came, and those who came again after a few years.
Surprisingly, I can also remember even those who only came once before, and it's really difficult to hold back the tears when a sudden memory of that person comes to mind. It has been quite a day.”
“I've never had the experience before of being told “thank you” by this many people in my life, but despite that I was the one who wanted to walk along this path, upon receiving words such as “thank you for being an idol”, I felt that I'm the one who was being saved by everyone instead.”
“It's really wonderful to have a close exchange of words with everyone, isn't it? I think there's no place other than handshake events that would build up this much boost of encouragement.
I have nothing but gratitude for everyone.”
“I will be graduating, but I'm sure that everyone's words and smiles will become a support to the members. Even for once in a while would be fine, I'll be happy if everyone could make it to the handshake events from now on as well.
Thank you very much for attending today's long program.”
(Disclaimer: the photos are not mine)