The Tokyo 2020 Olympics has begun and the archery athletes share their anime inspirations which strive them to do their best! Since the Tokyo 2020 Olympics took place in Japan, the anime industry has had a big influence on the event.
Olympic’s Archery Athletes and Their Anime Inspirations
The bronze medalist of the men’s archery team representing Japan, Takaharu Furukawa had stated, “My heart feels like it’s bouncing (pyonpyon)”. The phrase itself sounds familiar since it is a reference from the opening theme song of the anime series Is the order a rabbit? titled “Daydream Cafe”.
Also, the silver medalist of the men’s archery team representing Chinese Taipei, Deng Yu-Cheng was actually a big fan of the Fate/Grand Order series. One of his fans revealed their conversation on Instagram and how Deng was inspired by the character Arash.
“When you shoot off an arrow, do you say ‘I am the bone of my sword’?”
Deng’s fan
“No, actually, I generally say “Stella!!!!!”
Deng Yu-Cheng
His iconic reply of “Stella!” is a reference to the Noble Phantasm of F/GO‘s Arash who also wields a bow and arrow. The anime culture had a big impact on Deng since “Japanese animation and comics, mobile games” are listed under his hobbies found on Olympic’s official website.
What’s more, is that music from Japanese video games and anime theme songs were played during some of the matches. We got to listen to widely known songs from Japanese games, and even the opening of “Attack on Titan” anime!
We got to hear the theme song of “Haikyu!!” (“Imagination” by SPYAIR) during a volleyball match. Meanwhile, Naruto Shippuden’s opening theme song (“Blue Bird” by Ikimono-gakari) was played during an equestrian competition.
As you can see, the archery competition this Olympics had a lot of anime “easter eggs”!
More news and features are coming your way on Anime Corner, so stay tuned.
Source: NTV 24
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