Thimphu, Bhutan, March 30, 2022: Bhutan’s Olympic archer Karma has paid an emotional tribute to the head of a Japanese organisation which played a big part in her journey to the top.
Yasuo Miyazawa, founder and CEO of SEISA Group, passed away on March 23 at the age of 72.
The SEISA Group formed a strong alliance with the Bhutan Archery Federation and supported the athletes in their training and competitions. This led to an historic achievement for Karma, who became the first athlete from Bhutan in any sport to earn a quota place at the Olympic Games, at Tokyo 2020.
She had previously competed at Rio 2016 by means of invitation under the IOC’s tripartite arrangement.
Karma posted on Facebook: “I ignored the news several times believing that it cannot be true. I was quite upset and mentally down after seeing lots of condolence posts about Sir Miyazawa’s demise.
“The news of Sir Miyazawa passing away made me really sad and was quite distressed. Miyazawa San is an incredibly kindhearted man. He was very brave, generous and very active even at the age of 70s.”
Karma recalls her first visit to Japan in 2017, on the invitation of Miyazawa, following her appearance at Rio 2016.
“Through his generous support and kindness, I had the opportunity to see and feel the beauty of Japan. Since 2017 I got selected many times to visit Japan to compete in tournaments. During our stay in Japan, Sir Miyazawa made us feel at home by helping us with food, lodging and many more. I am very grateful and truly blessed to get such an opportunity.
“Sir Miyazawa has been the backbone of our Federation and like a burning candle to me in particular. He was a very brave and intelligent man who inspired me with his powerful and motivational words.”
Karma adds that she attended a training camp in Hakone prior to the Tokyo Olympic Games and Miyazawa often visited the camp to offer words of encouragement.
“With his support and encouragement, I have achieved my dream by securing a quota in the Olympics for Bhutan, for the first time in the history of Bhutan. He was so happy with my result and achievement.
“I will always strive to make Sir Miyazawa and SEISA proud. We may be oceans apart, but you and your entire team will forever remain in my heart, with sincere gratitude for the enormous support that I and Bhutan Archery Federation has received.”