Pokémon
The Path to the Pokémon League
Season 1, Episode 8 · Aired 1997-05-20

Synopsis
Pokemon: After receiving his second badge, Ash sets off triumphantly for Vermilion City. Along the way, they hear of a trainer named A.J. - a fierce pokemon trainer who has never lost a match. Full of self-confidence from his own record of ten victories in a row, Ash heads directly for the gym to find his new opponent. When they arrive, a huge bulletin is in front of the gym with a neon sign declaring "98 Consecutive Victories" appeal to Ash's over-confidence. A.J. is on the brink of achieving his goal of 100 straight victories, after which he will embark on a journey to gather badges. Will victory fall on the side of Ash and his 10 straight victories or with A.J. and his string of 98? In the process, will Ash learn some important lessons about the bonds between pokemon and trainer?
In the series
This episode is part of Pokémon (1998–present (U.S.)) on Kids' WB/Syndication.
Gotta catch ’em all — late-’90s kids’ globalization in pocket-monster form.
Key cast
- Rica Matsumoto as Ash Ketchum (JP)
- Veronica Taylor as Ash Ketchum (US early)
- Ikue Otani as Pikachu