Rivals as Teachers: Joseph Schooling and Takashi Kawamoto Emphasize Learning From Competitors (Athlete Narratives)
In a unique partnership, Japanese swimming sensation Takeshi Kawamoto and Singaporean Olympic gold medallist Joseph Schooling have been training together in the Lion City.
Originally from Aichi prefecture, Japan, Takeshi Kawamoto, a Toyota employee by day, belongs to the e-TOYOTA Division. Kawamoto aspires to perfect his body condition and swimming skills, and he values the camaraderie and encouragement during joint training sessions.
Kawamoto, who is best known for the butterfly stroke, came in first for the 100m butterfly in the Japan Swimming Championship 2018. He jointly holds the Japan record for the 50 meter and 100 butterfly with another Global Toyota Team Athlete (GTTA).
Joseph Schooling, who was trained in Singapore, finds the joint training sessions beneficial for learning and improvement. Schooling, who is curious about trying sushi and udon in Kawamoto's home country, Japan, has been training with other swimmers, including Kawamoto, in Singapore.
Schooling, who won the 100m butterfly event at the Rio 2016 Olympics, has challenges of his own. Defying expectations and pushing his limits are among his goals. He was inspired by Kawamoto's success and believes that an Asian swimmer can win a competition.
Kawamoto, in turn, finds Schooling's speed and strength enlightening for his own training. They compete with each other during training and discuss the sport in between races. Schooling recommends local cuisine to Kawamoto before he leaves Singapore.
Both Kawamoto and Schooling are expected to compete fiercely at the swimming pool in Tokyo 2020. Kawamoto's personal challenge is to continue finding room for improvement, while Schooling's is to maintain his position as a top contender.
Despite their competitive nature, the two swimmers share a mutual respect and admiration for each other. Their collaboration in Singapore is a testament to their shared passion for the sport and their determination to push each other to new heights.
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