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Yasu Hirai (Yasu) is one of Japan's leading open water swimmers, with numerous remarkable achievements in the 10km event. He has been active on the international stage for over 10 years, competing as a member of the Japanese national team and making a name for himself in numerous competitions.
Among his major achievements:
- 2014 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships – 6th place
- 2015 World Championships – 11th place
- 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics – 8th place (4.8 seconds behind the gold medalist)
- 2017 Asian Open Water Swimming Championships – Gold in the 5km event
On December 7, 2025, I had the honor of attending the Japan HEROs Sports Award 2025.
@heros_nippon_foundation
It was a meaningful time filled with reunions and new encounters, giving me a great deal of energy as I pursue my goal of representing Japan in the Olympics for the third time.
For me, who as an 8-year-old boy watched the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France on TV, the words of Hidetoshi Nakata, the keynote speech by Mr. Sasakawa, who supported me when I first challenged the world as a Japanese Open Water representative in 2010, and the speech by Hakuhō were all powerful reminders of the importance of determination and perseverance.
Life is never something to take for granted. I am deeply grateful to be healthy and able to take on challenges again with a renewed sense of purpose.
From now on, I will continue to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to social contribution and personal challenges in ways only I can, giving my utmost effort every step of the way.
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