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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
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On October 1, Yasu had the honor of attending the Global Sport Agora, organized by The World Academy of Sport (WAoS) and the City of London Corporation (CoL), at London’s historic Guildhall.
The 2025 edition brought together leaders from international sport and the business community for a day of dialogue and collaboration. This year’s discussions focused on two pivotal themes:
• Unlocking sport as an asset class
• How sport impacts other asset classes
The conversations were insightful and dynamic, exploring how sport can drive innovation, investment, and long-term socio-economic value.
As a professional athlete, Yasu constantly thinks about performance, discipline, and teamwork—but attending this Agora reminded Yasu that sport also has a powerful role on a global economic and social stage. Yasu felt strongly that more Japanese leaders need to step onto the global stage as rule-makers and actively voice their opinions.
It also reinforced that Yasu has the ability to prove himself beyond the pool, using his experience in sport to contribute meaningfully as an opinion leader and speak with confidence in international forums.
A huge thank you to all participants, partners, and supporters who made this year’s Agora a success. Yasu looks forward to building on this momentum as we prepare for 2026!
#GlobalSport #Leadership #Innovation #SportsIndustry #Agora2025 #AthletePerspective
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On November 9, 2025, Yasu will compete in IRONMAN 70.3 MELBOURNE in Melbourne, Australia.
This race marks his first event in the ROAD TO KONA campaign, serving as an important step in his journey toward competing in the Ironman World Championships in Kona.
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From October 31 to November 2, 2025, Yasu will compete as an invited athlete at Noosa Triathlon 2025, one of the largest triathlon festivals in the world, held in Noosa, Australia.
Following his participation last year, Yasu will take part in the Celebrity Triathlon Relay as well as multiple other events. This high-profile festival attracts athletes and fans from around the globe, promising exciting and competitive races.
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