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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
Nikkei Business Online
On 3 October 2026, Japanese Olympian Yasu Hirai claimed victory in the 10km race at OCEANMAN Malta, held at Ghadira Bay, Malta.
Yasu would like to express his sincere gratitude to Karl Izzo, President of the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA), and everyone involved in organising this outstanding event. Their dedication, hospitality, and support made this race an unforgettable experience, both in and out of the water.
■ Next Stop: OCEANMAN World Final in the Dominican Republic
Following his victory in Malta, Yasu is preparing for the OCEANMAN World Final, which will take place in the Dominican Republic in November 2026. Having secured his qualification, he looks forward to competing against elite open-water swimmers from around the world.
He is also working towards his goal of returning to the World Championships as a representative of Japan for the first time in eight years.
■ The Ultimate Goal: Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games
For Yasu, this victory represents much more than success in a single race. It is another important milestone in his comeback journey as he continues to challenge himself on the international stage.
A two-time Olympian, having competed at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympic Games, Yasunari is now working towards a return to the Olympic stage at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games (LA28).
Every race, every training session, and every new challenge brings him one step closer to that dream. He remains committed to pushing his limits, embracing new opportunities, and continuing to compete at the highest level of open-water swimming.
“My journey is far from over.”
Yasunari will continue to pursue his ambitions with determination as he works towards his ultimate goal of competing at LA28.
Thank you for your continued support and encouragement as he takes the next steps in his journey.
Yasu has been featured in Forbes Greece in a special article highlighting the upcoming Santorini Experience 2026, an international open-water swimming event taking place on October 17, 2026, on the Greek island of Santorini.
The article introduces Yasu as an invited athlete competing in the event.
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