[2024.12.02-2024.12.07] Sports Hochi - Countdown to Yuzuru Hanyu's 30th birthday

[yuzurujenn]

2024.12.02

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20241201-OHT1T51228.html?page=1

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu's birthday countdown series starts in Sports Hochi on the 3rd

 

Professional skater Yuzuru Hanyu will celebrate his 30th birthday on December 7, the opening day of his ice show "Yuzuru Hanyu ICE STORY 3rd 'Echoes of Life' TOUR" at the Saitama Super Arena. "Sports Hochi" will publish a five-day countdown series starting on December 3. The series will reflect on Hanyu's journey, from his childhood to his career, which saw him reach the pinnacle of the sport with two Olympic gold medals, and continues to shine in the professional world.

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2024.12.03

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20241202-OHT1T51184.html?page=1#
Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20241203001106/https://hochi.news/articles/20241202-OHT1T51184.html?page=1

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu: Meeting figure skating at the age of 4 and living with it; Olympic champion at 19; Countdown to 30 years old.

 

Spoiler

Professional skater Yuzuru Hanyu will celebrate his 30th birthday on the 7th. After reaching the pinnacle of his career with two Olympic gold medals, Hanyu continues to take on challenges in the professional world. In this countdown series, we look back on his journey, starting from his early years when he first encountered figure skating to the evolution that led him to become the first Asian Olympic champion at the age of 19.

 

Yuzuru Hanyu met figure skating at the age of 4, an encounter that became something he could devote his entire life and energy to. With a deep, cherished love for skating, he grew from a boy into an adult.

 

Soon after starting the sport, he met a future "rival"—his 9-year-old self. "I’ve always been in battle with the 9-year-old version of myself. I feel like that confident, unshakable self is always telling me, 'You're still not there yet,'" he said in a 2019 NHK interview. The "invincible self" he encountered when he won his first national novice B competition continued to support him throughout his career.

 

On March 11, 2011, at the age of 16, he was affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake and was forced to live in a shelter. There was a time when he resented being seen not as a figure skater, but as a "representative of the disaster area." The turning point came the following year in March.

 

In his first World Championships appearance in Nice, he won the bronze medal. "I could truly feel the support for the disaster area, and it brought tears to my eyes," he said. After recovering from 7th place, he reached the podium. "I could truly feel that people were supporting me. I realized I wasn't in the position of supporting others, but being supported." He decided to shoulder this responsibility, accept it, and move forward.

 

In February 2014, Hanyu was in Sochi. He stood on the Olympic rink, a dream he'd had since childhood. In the short program, he achieved the first-ever score of over 100 points, opening the door to history. His gold medal was the first ever for an Asian figure skater. "Now that I became an Olympic gold medalist, I feel there are things I can do for the disaster area and reconstruction. This is the start of that." At 19, he was already looking ahead.

 

Two months later, 92,000 people gathered in Sendai for his victory parade. "The gold medal was thanks to everyone's support. I think it's proof that we became one," he expressed his gratitude. The ambition to improve his skating skills and the ability to accept the support of others led him to reach the pinnacle in his teens. He would go on to break many more "firsts" in the years that followed.

 

(Written by Megumi Takagi) —敬称略—

 

 

On his 30th birthday, Hanyu will premiere the third installment of his ice show, "Yuzuru Hanyu ICE STORY 3rd 'Echoes of Life' TOUR," at the Saitama Super Arena. The tour will begin with performances in Saitama (December 7, 9, 11) and continue with shows in Hiroshima (January 3, 5, 2025) and Chiba (February 7, 9, 2025) at the Lala Arena Tokyo Bay.

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2024.12.04

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20241203-OHT1T51160.html?page=1
Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20241204001534/https://hochi.news/articles/20241203-OHT1T51160.html?page=1

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu: 'Beyond the Wall is Another Wall' – His Ongoing Challenge in His 20s, Consecutive Victories in PyeongChang, Pride in Beijing, and the Countdown to 30

 

Spoiler

Professional skater Yuzuru Hanyu will celebrate his 30th birthday on the 7th. The second installment of the countdown series reflects on his 20s, the era of his competitive career that left an indelible mark in both records and memories, including his historic consecutive victories at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, the first in 66 years for a male figure skater.

 

Hanyu’s evolution continued as he turned 20. As an athlete who has etched his name in history, he advanced through records and into the memories of fans. After winning his third consecutive title at the 2014 Japan National Championships, he said, "I overcame the wall, but beyond that, I saw another wall. Beyond the wall, there was only another wall." Living his 20s in this world, where only a hero aiming for the highest peak can truly see, Hanyu continued his journey.

 

In the 2015 NHK Trophy, he led figure skating into a new era. After updating his own world record in the short program (SP), he became the first skater in history to surpass 200 points in the free program and 300 points overall. Two weeks later, in the Grand Prix Final in Barcelona, he set another triple world record. "I’m happy and honored by the evaluation of having the world’s highest score, but more than that, the important thing is how much I can refine my own performance," said the reigning king of figure skating.

 

A skater who can turn pressure into strength is a strong one. At the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, he overcame adversity and achieved a historic consecutive victory for the first time in 66 years in men's figure skating. In November of the previous year, just a day before the start of the NHK Trophy, he fell during practice and was diagnosed with a "right ankle lateral ligament injury." His first competition in four months, since the Russian Cup, would be on the Olympic stage. He delivered a perfect performance in the short program and fought through the free program with gritted teeth. "I wondered what I would do if I had to quit skating. I’ve poured everything into skating and given up so many things." His passion was unwavering, and he dedicated himself fully to the sport.

 

At the 2022 Beijing Olympics, his third Olympic appearance, Hanyu attempted the quad axel (4.5 rotations) in the free program "Heaven and Earth". He attempted the jump despite injuring his right ankle in the official practice the day before. "It was an Olympic performance where I gave it my all, a challenge filled with my pride." For a skater who had reached a realm that couldn't be measured by points, it was inevitable that he would move on to a new stage. On July 19, 2022, Hanyu announced his transition to a professional career at a hotel in Tokyo. "I made this decision because I want to become stronger. While cherishing figure skating as a sport and as a professional athlete, I want to keep striving toward the ideal of Yuzuru Hanyu." As a professional, Hanyu is now carving out a new path.

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2024.12.05

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20241204-OHT1T51179.html?page=1
Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20241204224734/https://hochi.news/articles/20241204-OHT1T51179.html?page=1

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu 'thoroughly picks up every detail of the sound,' Takahito Mura talks about his otherworldly sensitivity as the countdown to his 30th birthday begins.

 

Even after Yuzuru Hanyu (29) turned professional, Takahito Mura (33), his 'older brother' who has performed together with him in ice shows such as 'notte stellata' (March, Miyagi) and the 'Noto Peninsula Reconstruction Support Charity Performance' (September, Ishikawa), spoke from a fellow skater's perspective about the greatness of 'Professional Skater Yuzuru Hanyu.' (Interview and composition by Megumi Takagi)

 

Spoiler

If I had to describe Yuzu's professional activities in one word, it would be 'otherworldly.' It's exactly what he said at his press conference when he declared, 'a professional athlete.' He must be training incredibly hard, and his preparation and curiosity to deliver the maximum performance are extraordinary. I went to see his first solo show, 'Prologue' (November 2022, Yokohama). What I want to say loud and clear is that it’s not normal to perform a full ice show by yourself. If it were a 15-minute or 30-minute set, that would be understandable, but 90 minutes? Seriously... I was truly shocked. It really was beyond ordinary. From start to finish, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of Yuzuru Hanyu.

 

Since last year, I’ve participated in 'Yuzuru Hanyu notte stellata' for two years in a row. For Yuzu, this ice show deeply reflects his thoughts on the Great East Japan Earthquake. While preparing and rehearsing together, Yuzu also spoke about these feelings, and you could really sense it in his approach. While skating alongside him, I could feel the intense dedication he pours into each show.

 

In September, I performed with Yuzu, Akiko Suzuki, and Satoko Miyahara at the 'Noto Peninsula Reconstruction Support Charity Performance.' The opening song was "Noto Kuni Kiriko Festival" by the Wajima City Japanese drum team Toranosuke. It was my first time skating to a taiko drum piece, and it was difficult. When you listen to it midway through, it's impossible to tell where it begins. We had to figure out, 'This part has so many beats, so we should start moving after the nth beat.' Yuzu worked hard, listening intensely until the last minute.

 

For the finale, we did a duet to 'Que Sera Sera' by Mrs. GREEN APPLE, which Yuzu choreographed. His ability to pick up on the music and the beats is amazing. He captures twice as many sounds as a normal person would. For every lyric or note in the song, he adds multiple movements. The rhythm Yuzu takes from the music is different from the one we usually use. I think this ability to pick up the sound comes from his sensitivity. He picks up every little detail of the sound thoroughly.

 

While we take a beat like '1, 2, 3,' Yuzu might take it at '0.5' first, and then wait a little before moving. He doesn't always take the sound in a regular pattern. It was a fresh surprise to see how he took it here. After everyone's practice was over, Yuzu said, 'I'll stay and practice a bit more until I'm more confident,' and he stayed behind. Once he decides to do something, he’ll keep going until he's satisfied.

 

I'm really looking forward to Yuzu's 30s. He even said that after turning professional, 'I think my body might be in better shape now.' I'm sure he'll show us even more evolved skating. Back when he was competing, I used to think, 'Since Yuzu is doing his best, I have to do my best too.' If there's anything I can do for Yuzu, I want to repay him.

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2024.12.06

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20241205-OHT1T51142.html?page=1
Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20241206223728/https://hochi.news/articles/20241205-OHT1T51142.html?page=1

 

 

MIKIKO: Yuzuru Hanyu - “You still have that talent hidden inside you?” Countdown to his 30th birthday

 

Yuzuru Hanyu (29) will kick off his 'Yuzuru Hanyu ICE STORY 3rd "Echoes of Life" TOUR' on the 7th at Saitama Super Arena, the day of his 30th birthday. The production will be directed by MIKIKO, one of Japan's leading choreographers. MIKIKO, who also worked on 'GIFT' and 'RE_PRAY,' spoke about the evolution of 'Professional Skater Yuzuru Hanyu' and her thoughts on the 'ICE STORY' they will be creating together. (Interview and Composition by: Megumi Takagi)

 

Spoiler

― How did you feel when you first received the request to direct "Echoes of Life"?

"I was approached right after finishing 'RE_PRAY,' so I honestly had concerns about whether I could create a new piece within a year. But I immediately started thinking, 'What can we do next?'"

 

― How did your experience and learnings from 'GIFT' influence 'RE_PRAY,' and how do they connect to this third installment?

"I feel that we are getting closer and closer to the ideal shape we’ve envisioned. Since it’s an 'ICE STORY,' the ideal would be a new kind of work where the 2D world of a film and the 3D world of a performance intersect in a delicate balance, making the audience feel like they are watching a movie and a play. In 'RE_PRAY,' we used the motif of a game and tried to bring the world from the screen directly into the venue space. This time, since it’s a story written by Hanyu, I hope that, based on the lessons learned from the past two works, the audience can immerse themselves even more deeply into the world of the story."

 

― The beauty of the projection mapping is always overwhelming. What are some of the unique aspects and joys of using the entire ice rink as a canvas in an ice show?

"We focus on using the speed and dynamism that only skating can offer, so we are particular about linking the choreography and the projections. The synergy between Hanyu-kun's precise skating and the projections is truly amazing, and I'm looking forward to it as a spectator too."

 

― 'The Chicken, Snake, and Pig' was the first performance you choreographed in full. What was the reason for choosing this song, and what did you focus on in your choreography?

"When I first read the original draft for 'RE_PRAY,' the lyrics and worldview of the song 'The Chicken, Snake, and Pig' came to mind, so I suggested it. I envisioned choreography that would make you feel that Hanyu's figure—struggling and suffering as he moves forward on a path where there is no choice but to continue—is so beautiful that it’s almost frightening! I created it with the intention of conveying raw emotions through the upper body movements in the choreography."

 

― 'RE_PRAY' was Hanyu’s first solo tour. What new discoveries did you make during the tour?

"I think it’s tough for the performer to maintain motivation and stamina, but the charm of a tour is that, even with the same performance, each time it feels like a different show. It was very enjoyable to continue refining the direction to match each venue."

 

― Even during his competitive years, it was impressive how he poured all his energy into the exhibition after the competition. From your perspective, MIKIKO, who is working most closely with him to create the show, how do you see Hanyu's passion, effort, and curiosity?

"I am constantly amazed, thinking, 'You still have that talent hidden inside you?' Hanyu-kun is a genius who works hard, and it requires determination and readiness from the staff around him, including me. But I think this mutual synergy is an ideal relationship in creative work. But that level of passion is probably just natural for him, so I hope it will continue to influence everyone unconsciously moving forward."

 

― July marked two years since he turned professional. From MIKIKO's perspective, how has "professional Hanyu Yuzuru" evolved and changed?

"I think his perspective has definitely broadened, and he no longer seems afraid of challenging new things. His 'otaku' qualities (a compliment) that he had accumulated outside of skating are now being used in his creative work, and I believe he’s evolving both as an artist and as a creator."

 

― As a professional yourself, MIKIKO, what does 'professionalism' mean to you?

"The power to believe, the power to never give up, and the power to have fun."

 

― As a fellow professional performer, what is the scenery you see with Hanyu?

"A vivid, beautiful, tranquil, sacred scenery."

 

― The press release for 'Echoes' described it as 'a story that questions the essence of 'life' and 'living,' with the theme of life's journey and growth.' What kind of tour do you want this to be?

"We're putting our heart and soul into this tour so that it will reach the hearts of the audience who come to see it. I would be happy if this tour can become a source of strength for as many people as possible, helping them find the power to 'live' from tomorrow onward."

 

― The opening performance will be on Hanyu’s 30th birthday. Please give a message to him as he enters his 30s.

"You're finally 30! Age has caught up with you. Use your boyish purity and god-like insight to gain experiences that only someone in their 30s can have, become an even cooler person, and save the world!"

 

 

(*Note: One of the three new programs performed at “RE_PRAY,” a song by Ringo Shiina. He danced bewitchingly in a narrow, straight space lit by red light, wearing a black costume.)

 

 

◆Hanyu's past "ICE STORY" series
　▼GIFT　On February 26, 2023, he held the first solo performance by a figure skater in history at the Tokyo Dome. He performed 12 pieces, including new songs, for two and a half hours. 35,000 people attended.
　▼RE_PRAY　His first solo tour performance, incorporating the ethics and values of the world of games. From November 2023 to April 2024, he toured Saitama, Saga, Yokohama, and Miyagi. He performed 12 pieces for about two and a half hours.

 

 

◆MIKIKO: Head of the dance company "ELEVENPLAY." As a director and choreographer, she is active in a wide range of fields including art, music, and technology. She is one of Japan's leading choreographers, and has choreographed music videos, anime, commercials, and stage productions for various artists including Perfume and BABYMETAL.

 

 

◆ "Yuzuru Hanyu ICE STORY 3rd "Echoes of Life" TOUR"
　▼ Saitama performance (Saitama Super Arena): December 7th, 9th, 11th, 2024
　▼ Hiroshima performance (Hiroshima Green Arena): January 3rd and 5th, 2025
　▼ Chiba performance (LaLa Arena Tokyo Bay): February 7th and 9th, 2025

 

[yuzurujenn]

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

 

 

2024.12.07

 

Source: https://hochi.news/articles/20241206-OHT1T51227.html?page=1

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20241206224613/https://hochi.news/articles/20241206-OHT1T51227.html?page=1

 

 

Yuzuru Hanyu celebrates his 30th birthday today with the "Echoes of Life" tour.  Countdown final episode

 

Professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu celebrated his 30th birthday on the 7th. On the same day, the third installment of his ice story, Yuzuru Hanyu ICE STORY 3rd "Echoes of Life" TOUR, opened at the Saitama Super Arena. In the final installment of the countdown series, reporter Megumi Takagi reflects on Hanyu’s "life beyond 30" through her interview notes.

 

Spoiler

An interview with Hanyu before the start of the 2010 World Junior Championships, where he later won, remains in the Tohoku edition of the Sports Hochi newspaper.

 

"I think the results of this Junior World Skating Championships are important in determining whether I can win a medal in Sochi four years from now. I absolutely want to win the gold medal. I want to compete in the Olympics from this (Sendai) rink and win, just like (Shizuka) Arakawa. Ultimately, I want to become a professional. In order to do that, I want to achieve the best results and then go professional. In the future, I want to become a professional and give back to everyone who has supported me up until now."

 

This was the vision Hanyu, just 15 years old, had for his future: full of effort, passion, and dedication. Hanyu has lived his life exactly like that. He visited disaster-stricken areas and made people smile. He has hosted ice shows for disaster recovery efforts, shining a light of hope through skating.

 

His commitment, unchanged from his competitive days, extends beyond "just skating." Whether it's in photography, interviews, or coaching, Hanyu gives his all.

 

At the charity performance for Noto Peninsula recovery in September, his lesson for local skaters lasted 50 minutes—much longer than the originally planned 30 minutes. A few days before, he had prioritized practice for the skating class over his own. He thought about what would benefit the children, what movements were best, and adapted exercises that could be done off-ice, since the rink was not permanent. He designed a training plan for improving skating, put it into practice, and conveyed it to them.

 

In an interview just before his second anniversary as a professional in July, Hanyu revealed again, "When I was around 18 or 16, honestly, I probably thought I wouldn't be skating at 30." After the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, he planned to turn professional and retire from skating after about five years of activity. Yet, he continues to skate, astonishingly evolving all the while.

 

"The way my physical strength and skills have developed is completely different from what I had imagined. I really feel like I can still do so much more, and I feel that there is a lot of potential for the future," he continued.

 

Since turning professional, the word "responsibility" has appeared more frequently in his vocabulary. He will likely continue to give his all and surpass his own limits. All the paths he has walked so far will beautifully and rightfully lead him beyond 30.