Reizo Koike

1.1. Birth and Childhood

Reizo Koike was born on December 12, 1915, in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. His formative years in this region influenced his early engagement with sports.

1.2. Education

Koike began to excel in swimming while attending Shizuoka Prefectural Numazu Commercial High School. Following his notable achievements in high school, he advanced his education at Keio University, where he studied in the Political Science Department within the Faculty of Law. It was during his time at Keio University that he set a world record in the 200-meter breaststroke.

2.1. Early Success and National Achievements

Koike rose to prominence as a breaststroke swimmer during his time at Numazu Commercial High School. Throughout his career, he secured eight national titles, demonstrating his dominance in Japanese swimming. While attending Keio University, he further solidified his reputation by setting an unofficial world record in the 200-meter breaststroke.

2.2. Olympic Participations and Medals

Koike represented Japan in two consecutive Olympic Games, earning medals in both appearances.

At the 1932 Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles, Koike was considered a strong contender for the gold medal. Despite facing health issues at the time, he earned a silver medal in the 200-meter breaststroke, finishing second to his compatriot Yoshiyuki Tsuruta.

Four years later, at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, Koike once again competed in the 200-meter breaststroke. In this event, he secured a bronze medal, placing third behind Tetsuo Hamuro of Japan and Erwin Sietas of Germany. His consistent performance at two Olympic Games underscored his skill and resilience as an athlete.

4.1. Swimming Coach and Administrator

Koike played a pivotal role in the resurgence and development of Japanese swimming after the war. He served as a coach for the Japanese national Olympic swimming team, and later took on the role of manager for the national swimming team at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. He also held the position of chairman of the Japan Swimming Federation and later became the Director of the Player Strengthening Headquarters for the federation. Throughout his administrative career, he provided guidance to many prominent swimmers, including legendary figures such as Hironoshin Furuhashi and Shiro Hashizume. In his later years, he continued to contribute to the sport as an advisor to the Japan Swimming Federation.

4.2. Broadcasting Career

In addition to his contributions to swimming, Koike also pursued a career in the broadcasting sector. In 1955, he joined Asahi Broadcasting Corporation, where he held various managerial positions. His roles included Sales Manager, Sports Manager, and eventually, Radio Station Manager.

5.1. International Recognition

In 1990, Koike was awarded the Olympic Order in Silver, a high honor bestowed by the International Olympic Committee for distinguished contributions to the Olympic Movement. In 1996, his enduring legacy in swimming was further acknowledged when he was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame, cementing his place among the world's most distinguished aquatic athletes and contributors.

5.2. Domestic Recognition

Within Japan, Koike was honored with the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Third Class, in 1987, a distinguished decoration awarded by the Emperor of Japan for his public service. Following his death, he was posthumously granted the court rank of Junior Fifth Rank.

6.1. Interactions and Public Engagements

A notable anecdote from his later life highlights his continued passion for swimming. During the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Koike made multiple visits to encourage Kyoko Iwasaki, a fellow breaststroke swimmer from his hometown. After Iwasaki won a gold medal, Koike expressed his immense joy, remarking that he felt "as happy as if my own grandchild had won." This interaction showcased his supportive nature and deep connection to the sport and its future generations.

7.1. Date and Cause

Reizo Koike passed away on August 3, 1998, at the age of 82. The cause of his death was diagnosed as small cell lung cancer. Following his death, he was posthumously honored with the court rank of Junior Fifth Rank, a recognition of his lifetime achievements.

8.1. Contributions to Japanese Swimming

Koike's influence on Japanese swimming is profound and enduring. As an athlete, he set high standards and brought international recognition to the sport. After his competitive career, his leadership as a coach and administrator was instrumental in rebuilding and strengthening Japan's swimming prowess in the post-war era. He mentored a new generation of swimmers, including prominent figures who would go on to achieve international success. His dedication as chairman and advisor of the Japan Swimming Federation helped establish foundational structures and strategies that fostered continuous development in the sport, ensuring his impact extended far beyond his own athletic achievements.