Full support for Akira Sasaki, who aims to compete in the 2026 Milan Olympics
On August 1, 2022, Goldwin Inc. announced the signing of an athlete support contract with Akira Sasaki. Under this agreement, Goldwin will provide him with apparel and other equipment upon his return to alpine skiing. Based on its 70-plus years of accumulated know-how and experience as a brand with skiing, Goldwin will provide uncompromising, cutting-edge development and support for its products. Sasaki himself also released a statement at the time
I didn't sign with Goldwin, a team that remains at the forefront of the skiing world, simply because I wanted to return to the world of racing. It was the future challenge Goldwin envisions. When I heard about this challenge, I was excited by their vision for the big future, as if projecting myself into it. I also felt a strong sense of hope that there was something I could contribute. Japan's sincere approach to craftsmanship. Communicating Japan's pride to the world and creating a better world. Goldwin's philosophy as they set off on a bold global journey impressed me, and this was the biggest factor in my decision to sign with them. My philosophy in life is to balance and sublimate sport, culture, fashion, and life. To give back to society and education with this philosophy, experience, and mindset, I must take on the most difficult challenges myself. When my challenges and Goldwin's vision for the future merged, a path for us to walk together opened up. I believe that the only way I can shine a light on the future of the Goldwin brand is to build a constructive relationship where I can face every challenge head-on without compromising my philosophy. Now, I am proud to begin my journey with Goldwin, a creative brand with a global outlook
Recently, Sasaki'scrowdfunding campaignreached its first goal very quickly and is still ongoing. Let's keep an eye on his future endeavors.
■Akira Sasaki
Born on September 26, 1981, he is 40 years old. He hails from Ohno Town, Hokkaido (now Hokuto City, Hokkaido). He made his Olympic debut as a ski racer at the Salt Lake City Olympics. He then competed in four consecutive Olympic Games: Turin, Vancouver, and Sochi. He participated in the World Championships and the Alpine Ski World Cup, achieving the remarkable feat of standing on the podium three times, the most for a Japanese skier. After switching from alpine skiing, he skied on mountains around the world as a freeride skier. In 2021, he released videos he filmed around the world. Meanwhile, he is also involved in ski-related businesses, events for junior skiers, and has taken on the role of coach for the Japanese Alpine National Team, engaging in activities to nurture future Olympic athletes. In March 2022, he announced his return to racing competitions. Instagram:@akiraexploring
■Goldwin
Founded in 1950 in Toyama as a small factory called Tsusawa Knitwear Manufacturing, Goldwin later started as an outdoor brand specializing in ski wear. With over 70 years of history, the company has cultivated technical expertise and meticulously expressed its unique aesthetic of "DEDICATION TO DETAIL," a philosophy passed down since its inception. Based on the belief that "people can live more comfortable lives by utilizing the rich functionality nurtured by nature," Goldwin strives to develop products that deliver optimal functionality in the most environmentally friendly way possible. Currently, they offer a wide range of apparel, from sportswear for trekking, outdoor activities, and running, to lifestyle apparel. Goldwin website:https://www.goldwin.co.jp/goldwin/
Photography by Toki