「WORLD MASTERS GAMES (WMG) 2021 KANSAI」has the unique appeal of players being able to participate in the same field as players who are active overseas, as well as allowing anyone who is generally a sports enthusiast 30 years and older to participate. We will deliver the charm of WMG through interviews with past participants in a three-part series.
In the first interview series, we asked Masaharu Okawara (badminton) and Yoshiaki Miura (bicycle / triathlon) who participated in past WMG competitions, about the appeal of WMG and their relationships with the competition life.
At WMG 2021 KANSAI, I want to give back to friends around the world who taught me about diversity-Masaharu Okawara (Badminton)
－Tell us about your experience at WMG.
My first impression was regarding physique. If these were Asian Games, there would be no big difference, but Western players are different. How do you challenge opponents with such strong physical power even in the same age? They gave me a chance to advance to the next level.
During the WMG Auckland tournament, which I participated in for the first time in 2017, I was able to play against former champions and other powerful players. Unfortunately, in singles, I was defeated in the 3rd place decisive match and finished in 4th place.
With my OPEN class 35+doubles partner Tanikawa Toshiaki at WMG Auckland 2017 (left)
With my wife who came to support me at WMG Auckland 2017 (right)
－What did you discover playing the game with overseas players?
There are many “good” Japanese players, but “strong” players will be the ones who are able to perform in international competitions. Japanese badminton is a battle that emphasizes beautiful form. Although these tactics are not wrong, there are moments that are unrivaled by players of their own style that pursued their strengths.
The correct answer in Japan is not necessarily the correct answer in other places in the world. Knowing that will break the practice and common-sense concepts that have been accumulated. That discovery is a very good motivator.
－You seem to be working on expanding your exchanges with overseas players.
Thanks to the ability to speak Chinese, my acquaintances are increasing in China, Malaysia, and Singapore. And especially in Taiwan, I won’t forget the many people who helped take care of clothing, food, and shelter during my stay while participating in the tournament.
So when comrades from around the world come to Japan for a trip, I tell them “Please bring your shoes only.” I’m happy to be busy preparing rackets, clothing, and practice courts at different spots in Japan, bringing teams and friends together, and serving as a bridge for exchange games.
WMG2021 KANSAI will also be a place to give back to friends all over the world. I am very happy to have the opportunity to say "We have an international tournament in Japan.”
－What are your future activity goals?
They will continue to evolve over the course of my lifetime. To that end, stimulation that is the source of evolution is important, and WMG is one such stimulus. There is also the aspect of leadership. By studying and practicing what is necessary as a leader, I hope to keep on being captivating and persuasive.
Players who think technique or power are the number one factors remain limited. However, if any player continues to evolve and grow, the day when the growth curve overlaps with that player will come.
I'm sure I can be the “only one,” if I keep on trying to become the only one by maintaining my physical strength with technical training and tactical discipline. I believe that and will continue to enjoy badminton.
I stopped being a perfectionist and a new world appeared-Yoshiaki Miura (bicycle / triathlon)
－What was your first experience with WMG that you entered as a triathlete?
Actually, my ribs were broken just before the tournament, so my physical condition was not good, and I was in my worst overall condition. I managed to score a goal while being attacked by the feeling that I was losing power during the competition.
I had a difficult time with swimming, which was very painful, but I did a good job with my favorite bike. It is also a good memory that I was able to compete with Michael Torys who was active as a professional on a bike. This was the first time I learned that I could find my strength even in the worst possible situation.
Until then, I had been a perfectionist, always wanting to be at the top. However, I realized the importance of continuing sports over a long period of time.
－How did that change come about?
In retrospect, the challenge to reach the top began in junior high school. At that time, I was absorbed in classical guitar and had won the national competition. Even in bike racing, which I began when I was 19 years old, I had a past reigning as an amateur domestic champion.
Taking the top was a natural goal for me. However, many injuries come from the pressure and stoicness that go hand-in-hand with high goals. The more you aim for medals, the more injuries you have. I felt that I couldn't continue to do sports as it was, as my records gradually dropped with age.
I now want to continue playing sports even when I am over 100 years old. While taking a good rest, I am shifting to a style that will allow me to do my best.
－What drives you now, instead of the goal of top？
A warm time in a homestay
One is the bond with the friends I’ve made through participating in international competitions. A Korean friend who calls me “Aniki” became like a family member after staying in each other’s homes whenever a competition was happening in either of our countries.
I also like traveling to places I haven't seen yet. The pleasure of tasting the food culture of each country and viewing the scenery of traveling by rail is indispensable.
When considering international competitions, I will give priority to places I have never been to. Since WMG changes its location every time, it's one more fun point.
－Tell us about the appeal of enjoying the international competition and the sport itself.
Speeding for a medal and won medals in two categories at ASIA PACIFIC MASTERS GAMES PENANG 2018. Me and my medal with my granddaughter after coming back to Japan.
As an issue of an aging society, the independence of the elderly is often talked about, but lifelong sports will be a clue to support independence in both mind and body.
My eldest daughter is a triathlete with two children. In 2047 when my first grandson is 30, I will be 79 years old. If I can continue the competition for a long time, my dream of three generations participating in WMG could come true.
I feel that my job is to convey that lifelong sports are fun and teach this to future generations.
I also want to convey the importance of breaking my country's shell and going outside. The information you see in the press is biased and does not help you understand the country.
I hope many people will enjoy the world with their own eyes and enjoy it through sports.
This time, we asked Mr. Masaharu Okawara (badminton) and Mr. Yoshiaki Miura (bicycle / triathlon) who participated in the WMG past competitions about the appeal of WMG and the relationship with the competition life. Each thought about the charm and tackling the competition.
WMG 2021 KANSAI will be an opportunity for sports enthusiasts to take on sports.
Detailed information on the tournament will be announced on the WMG2021 KANSAI official website in late November 2019. Don't forget to check!
Next time, we will post interviews of those who participated in the competitions of softball and basketball.
Please look forward to it.
Click here for WMG2021 KANSAI official website👉 https://wmg2021.jp/en/
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