Athlete Takeshi Kawamoto encourages: Strive for excellence, not only for personal gain, but to bring delight to your backers. [Stories from the Sporting World]
Takeshi Kawamoto: The Japanese Swimmer Chasing Olympic Glory
Takeshi Kawamoto, a butterfly specialist and employee at Toyota Motor Corporation's e-TOYOTA Division, has his sights set on a medal at the upcoming Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Kawamoto's competitive nature and unrelenting determination have driven him to consistently compete in national swim meets since elementary school.
Kawamoto's main weapon in the pool is his powerful dolphin kick, which is either the best or second best in Japan, according to former Toyota swim team member Takashi Kishida. This kick, along with his focus on self-improvement, has earned him several notable achievements.
In 2018, Kawamoto won the 100 meters at the FINA World Aquatic Championships, giving him his first taste of victory on the world stage. At the qualifying trials for the FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) in October 2018, Kawamoto tied the Japanese record of 22.49 seconds in the 50-meter event and set a new Japanese record of 49.60 seconds in the 100-meter event.
However, Kawamoto's journey to success has not been without setbacks. Soon after entering Toyota in April 2017, he injured his right elbow, requiring a full two months to heal. Despite this, Kawamoto remained focused and determined, using the PDCA cycle, guided by Kishida and other supporters, to help him reset his outlook.
Kawamoto's parents attend all of his swim meets in Japan and do not criticize him, even if his race times are not good. This unwavering support has no doubt played a role in Kawamoto's resilience and determination.
Kawamoto views Singapore's Joseph Schooling as his biggest rival, particularly in the dolphin kick. In an effort to train against his rival, Kawamoto traveled to Singapore to participate in the same strength training for swim sprinters that Schooling was attending. Today, Kawamoto trains alongside top-notch Asian swimmers, including Schooling, at the OCBC Aquatic Centre in Singapore.
Kawamoto's brother, who was a competitive swimmer and is now a physical therapist, supports him by periodically checking on his condition. Kawamoto also takes a discerning approach to self-care and does not rely solely on the team's trainers to manage his physical condition and mental well-being.
Kawamoto's motto is "Do your best and let the heavens do the rest." This philosophy, along with his competitive nature and unwavering determination, has enabled him to become a better swimmer and to chase his dream of winning a medal at Tokyo 2020.
Swimming is a popular spectator sport in Japan, and the swimming venue at Tokyo 2020 is expected to find a full crowd cheering on top swimmers from around the world. As the countdown to the Games continues, all eyes will be on Takeshi Kawamoto as he strives to make his mark on the world stage.
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