Shiori Hirata (4th year in the School of Political Science and Economics) of the Shooting Club made a report online to President Kosaku Dairokuno and Chairman, Board of Trustees Takashi Yanagiya on June 23. She is selected to represent Japan in the women’s rifle three positions event at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games to be held on July 31.President Dairokuno offered encouragement as well as asking, “One match is quite long at 2 hours and 45 minutes. How do you maintain focus?” Ms. Hirata replied, “It is difficult to maintain concentration for 2 hours and 45 minutes, so I switch off after every shot. I tackle matches by clearing my head every time I change position.”
Chairman, Board of Trustees Yanagiya noted that the Olympic Charter states that “Olympism blends sport with culture and education” and said, “Shooting is well known in Europe as a major sport, so I would like you to spread shooting throughout Japanese culture. And I would also like you to pass on a wonderful message to Meiji University students.”
Hirata vowed to do her best, saying “Everyone is struggling with the coronavirus pandemic, so I will strive to play in a manner in which people can watch me and gain courage. I humbly ask that everyone cheers for me.”