Athletes delve deep in a unique discussion show as the countdown to one year mark nears
In a special talk show aired by Toyota Times Sports on September 8, five Japanese athletes shared their journeys and strategies as they prepare for the Paris Olympics next year. The diverse group, consisting of judoka Shizuka Hangai, breaststroke world record holder Ippei Watanabe, wheelchair basketball player Naho Miyoshi, rugby sevens player Kippei Taninaka, and athlete Hajimu Ashida, discussed the unique challenges and inspirations they encounter in their respective disciplines.
Leading the talk show was Miyoshi, a former member of the silver medal-winning women's basketball team in Tokyo. The athletes opened up about unforgettable moments from their time in competition, with Hangai, a visually impaired judoka, sharing her experiences from both the Rio and Tokyo Olympics.
Hangai's training method is a testament to her determination and the innovative approach of the Toyota Sports program. Her unique language and methodology emphasize tactile and auditory communication, allowing her to understand techniques through touch and sound. During training, she touches her coach's body to check movements, feeling the speed, strength, and timing, before trying out the technique herself.
Judo, much like surfing on tatami mats, requires finding perfection without resisting the forces of nature, as explained by Hangai's coach, Yuko Isozaki. This sport of endless calculation, as Hangai described it, involves meticulously planning each move to avoid wasting force.
Ashida and Watanabe discussed the importance of mentality in timed sports such as athletics and swimming. Watanabe advised Hangai, who is visually impaired, to focus on making equal motions on both sides of the body when swimming. Miyoshi, known for her signature three-pointers, shared a fascinating anecdote, claiming she can sink a basket blindfolded.
The athletes also spoke about the advice and strength they receive from peers in different disciplines. This camaraderie is a major driving force in their quest for medals, providing a unique support system that transcends traditional boundaries.
Miki, a wheelchair basketball player, adjusts his wheelchair casters to suit court conditions, while Taninaka, a member of Japan's rugby sevens team who joined Toyota in April, shared his experiences in the sport.
The special talk show ended with the athletes watching video messages of support from their workplaces. Miyoshi even showed a photo of the Lexus NX she received after winning her silver medal. The event served as a reminder of the shared dreams and aspirations of these athletes as they strive for success in Paris 2024.
- Discussing their diverse sports, Hajimu Ashida shared insights on athletics, while Ippei Watanabe spoke about swimming, and Naho Miyoshi, known for her signature three-pointers, hinted at her ability to score blindfolded in basketball.
- Intrigued by the unique methodologies in various sports, Hangai, a visually impaired judoka, expanded on her tactile and auditory communication approach, and Miki, another wheelchair athlete, discussed adjusting his casters to suit court conditions.
- Beyond their respective disciplines, the athletes emphasized the power of camaraderie, sharing stories of receiving advice and strength from their peers, forming a unique support system that transcends traditional boundaries, much like the Toyota Sports program's approach.
