Airdate: December 10th, 1998
Summary: Ash and Co. made it to the Indigo Plateau, where they stumble upon a torch-bearer for the opening ceremonies of the Pokémon League. Ash tries to insert himself into the torch-carrying festivities, completely halting the ceremony. However, President Goodshow gives Ash a chance, and he continues the ceremonial run, good thing he did that running at the beach (see EP. 69 The Pi-Kahuna)! While Ash is running, Misty and Brock’s car fall into a hole, and Team Rocket is on the scene with the goal to steal the torch. Meowth grabs it initially, and gets burned. James sends out Victrebell, a new edition we first saw as a Weepinbell twenty episodes ago. A skirmish ensues, and Team Rocket steals the torch from Ash. Mr. Goodshow keeps Ash’s spirits up, what a mentor. He shows Ash the backup flame he has as an insurance policy, An extended cut version of the intro song plays while Ash, Brock, and Misty run with the torch in an extended montage. I’m ready for some battles baby! Brock, in his patented #91, finishes the torch run, but runs into Gary. Gary shakes Ash’s confidence a bit, but he is steadfast in his desire to win the tournament. He takes a nighttime stroll, this trainer is locked in. The opening ceremonies commence, and Ash is suddenly not locked in. Jessie and James try and trick the final torch runner, but Ash runs up to them. Pikachu battles Weezing, and Team Rocket tries to flee in a giant Metapod, but Moltres appears out of the flames and sends Team Rocket flying. Mr. Goodshow starts the tournament, let’s battle!
Best Trainer/Pokémon: Mr. Goodshow, a wonderful old codger.
Worst Trainer/Pokémon: Team Rocket, the candle burned out.
One thing I learned: Gary never disappoints in his ability to fire Ash up.
Pikachu-o-meter: 2/5, eh.
Best Quote: “You tried kid, but you can’t hold a candle to me” -Jessie
Best Scene: Ash’s look after Gary leaves, this man is out for blood.
Will Reviews Things 