Athlete Takeshi Kawamoto emphasizes the importance of setting high standards not solely for personal gain, but also for the delight of those who cheer for you. [Inspirational Athletic Journeys]
In the world of competitive swimming, Takeshi Kawamoto is making waves. The butterfly specialist from Japan, who works at Toyota Motor Corporation's e-TOYOTA Division, is setting his sights on the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020.
Kawamoto's journey in the pool began in elementary school, where he became a regular competitor in national swim meets. His love for the sport grew stronger with time, and he developed a strong dislike for losing. This competitive spirit has driven him to push his limits and strive for excellence.
One of the key factors that have fueled Kawamoto's determination is his rivalry with Joseph Schooling, another short-distance butterfly competitor born in 1995. Schooling's performance at the Olympic Games Rio de Janeiro 2016 inspired Kawamoto, boosting his confidence in his ability to win. The two athletes now train alongside each other at the OCBC Aquatic Centre in Singapore, where Kawamoto competes in afternoon sprint training sessions.
However, Kawamoto's biggest rival before the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics was Junya Koga, a fellow Japanese swimmer specializing in backstroke events. Kawamoto, who is known for his exceptional dolphin kick, which is either the best or second best in Japan, is determined to beat both his rivals and himself, aiming to win a medal at the Olympic Games.
Kawamoto takes a discerning approach to self-care, not relying solely on the team's trainers for his physical condition and mental well-being. He is supported by his brother, who used to be a competitive swimmer and is now a physical therapist, periodically checking on his condition.
At the FINA World Aquatic Championships, Kawamoto tasted victory on the world stage, winning the 100 meters. This victory was followed by another success at the qualifying trials for the FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) in October 2018, where he tied and set new Japanese records in the 50-meter and 100-meter events respectively.
Kawamoto's motto is "Do your best and let the heavens do the rest." This philosophy guides him during every race, as his primary focus is analyzing his own performance to identify and correct mistakes. Despite the immense pressure to deliver positive results due to the high expectations placed upon him, Kawamoto remains focused and resilient, with the support of his parents, who attend all of his swim meets in Japan and do not criticize him even when his performance is poor.
Swimming is a popular spectator sport in Japan, and the swimming venue at Tokyo 2020 is expected to be filled with cheering crowds. As the countdown to the Olympics continues, Kawamoto is preparing tirelessly, hoping to make his mark in the history of Japanese swimming.
