Mastering Lifesaving Skills: Record-breaking Performances at the 38th All Japan Lifesaving Pool Championships

The 38th All Japan Lifesaving Pool Championships took place on February 21-22, 2026, at the Tokyo Aquatics Center, marking the second time this venue hosted this prestigious event. The championships highlighted the rising swim capabilities of Japan's lifesavers and witnessed numerous record-breaking performances.

Among the standout events was the obstacle swim (200m), where youth competitors made headlines. Kairen Hashimoto from Nippon Sport Science University Ebara High School secured her first victory in the women’s category, adding to her recent win at the 51st All Japan Lifesaving Championship held at Katase Nishihama Beach in October. She triumphed over previous champions and college competitors to earn the top spot. In the same event, Shioli Kawabata from Kitajima Aquatics claimed third place, illustrating the remarkable talent in the youth category. The men’s event was won by Keiro Horita from Kujukuri LSC, who also excelled in the overall competition.

However, the excitement peaked during the mannequin carry (50m), particularly among the men’s competitors, where the Japanese record was broken multiple times throughout the year. Toshi Niyama from Chigasaki SLSC clocked an exceptional time of 29.02 seconds, establishing both Japanese and masters world records. Haru Nishiyama from Shirahama LSC also made headlines with a remarkable performance, setting a Japanese record of 29.36 seconds. This created a thrilling atmosphere during the finals, where four competitors swam neck-and-neck, all in the 29-second range, showcasing their prowess in this high-stakes race.

In the fin events, Seiya Nagasawa and Toshi Niyama from Chigasaki SLSC exhibited outstanding performances, winning both the mannequin carry with fin (100m) and mannequin tow with fin (100m) categories. Their ability to handle lifesaving equipment alongside their swim skills showcased their readiness as representatives for Japan.

The highly competitive Super Lifesaver (200m) saw Sara Hamachi of Nishihama SLSC emerge victorious in the women’s event, significantly improving her personal best. Meanwhile, Ryunosuke Shigetada from Kujukuri LSC, known for holding the national record, secured his place as the top male competitor despite a slightly slower final time.

Another exhilarating event was the line throw, where speed and precision were tested as competitors aimed to rescue a marked person from 12.5 meters away. In this competition, Riho Yashima of Otake SLSC claimed second place, displaying consistency in her performances across various championships.

The event concluded with Nishihama SLSC claiming the overall championship title after consistently placing high over the past few years. Their diverse-age team, including children and adults, showcased a strong performance across multiple categories. This dynamic contributed to their success not just at the pool level but in the overall yearly series, which also saw them crowned champions.

On a larger scale, the annual series comprised results from ocean, pool, and SERC competitions, culminating in Nishihama SLSC's two consecutive victories as overall champions. Renowned for their inclusive approach to lifesaving, they demonstrated that age is no barrier to excellence.

For those who want to catch all the exciting moments from the championships, recordings are available through the Japan Lifesaving Association's YouTube page, providing easy access to the remarkable athleticism displayed during the event.

The All Japan Lifesaving Championship is not just a competition; it is a showcase of dedication, perseverance, and outstanding athletic talent paving the way for the future of lifesaving in Japan. With rising stars and seasoned veterans, the sport continues to thrive, promising a bright future ahead for this noble pursuit.

Event Highlights

- Event Name: 38th All Japan Lifesaving Pool Championships
- Organizer: Japan Lifesaving Association (JLA)
- Date: February 21-22, 2026
- Venue: Tokyo Aquatics Center, Koto, Tokyo
- Participants: 38 teams, 536 individuals
- Link to event page: JLA Lifesaving Event Schedule

The success of the championships highlights a bright future for the sport of lifesaving in Japan and promises to inspire the next generation of athletes to strive for excellence.