Hitachi Solutions Welcomes Rinkei Sasaki to Its Wheelchair Athletics Team

On January 1, Hitachi Solutions officially welcomed Rinkei Sasaki into its wheelchair athletics team, AURORA. Hailing from Akita Prefecture, Sasaki's journey into sports took an unexpected turn after an injury while playing rugby in college led to a lower limb disability. Despite this setback, Sasaki has shown immense resilience and determination by transitioning to wheelchair athletics, where he has already made notable achievements.

Background on Rinkei Sasaki

Rinkei Sasaki began his athletic career as a rugby player, even representing Japan at the under-20 level. However, his life changed dramatically during his second year of university when he suffered an injury that resulted in a significant disability in both lower limbs. This life-altering event prompted Sasaki to pursue wheelchair athletics, a decision that has now defined his sporting life.

Currently classified in the T54 category, which includes athletes with moderate to severe physical impairments, Sasaki is quickly making a name for himself. Not only did he secure a silver medal in the upcoming Japan Para athletics championships for the 1500m event planned for 2025, but he also impressed at the Oita International Wheelchair Marathon, finishing in 10th place in the full marathon. His performance has generated excitement and anticipation about his future in the sport.

Support by Hitachi Solutions

Hitachi Solutions has been a strong proponent of parasports, committed to creating an environment that nurtures athletic talent. The company’s investment in the AURORA team reflects its dedication to empowering athletes like Sasaki, providing them with the necessary support to compete on a global stage. With Hitachi Solutions backing him, Sasaki will aim for excellence in his training, pushing boundaries and inspiring many through his passion and perseverance.

About Team AURORA

Founded in November 2004, Hitachi Solutions established Japan's first disabled skiing team to cultivate the talents of exceptional athletes. By incorporating a wheelchair athletics division in April 2014, the company has expanded its commitment to fostering a comprehensive parasports team known as AURORA. This initiative encompasses talent discovery, training, and team management, ensuring that athletes have the resources they need to excel.

As a flagship team under the Hitachi Solutions group, AURORA continues to grow and support the development of para-athletics in Japan. The organization aims to elevate the standard of sports for athletes with disabilities and is dedicated to contributing to the further advancement of Japan's parasports sector.

Rinkei Sasaki's Profile

- Name: Rinkei Sasaki (佐々木凜平)
- Date of Birth: December 26, 1995 (age 30)
- Sports Class: T54 class for wheelchair athletics (1500m, 5000m), marathon

Career Highlights

- 2017: Began wheelchair athletics
- 2019: 10th place in Oita International Wheelchair Marathon
- 2020: 3rd in the 800m and 4th in the 1500m at the 31st Japan Para Athletics Championships
- 2023: 5th in the 800m and 3rd in the 1500m at the Japan Para Athletics Championships
- 2024: Champion of the Nissan Cup Oppama Championship 10km; 3rd in the Oita International Wheelchair Marathon (half)
- 2025: 10th in the Oita International Wheelchair Marathon (full)

About Hitachi Solutions

Hitachi Solutions is dedicated to providing various solutions that leverage cutting-edge digital technologies to realize digital transformation. The company maintains a robust global presence, coordinating across locations in North America, Southeast Asia, and India to address social and corporate challenges. Their mission is to contribute to a safe and comfortable society that enables sustainable growth. For more information, please visit Hitachi Solutions' official website.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding this announcement, please contact:
Kano, Tsurumi
Hitachi Solutions
Human Resources & General Affairs Department
[email protected]

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