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5000 m and 10000 m Olympian Kensuke Takezawa to Join Sumitomo Denko Corporate Team

http://www.sei.co.jp/news/press/13/prs079_s.html

translated and edited by Brett Larner

The Sumitomo Denko corporation is proud to announce today that Beijing Olympics 5000 m and 10000 m Olympian Kensuke Takezawa, with bests of 13:19.00 and 27:45.59, has joined the company as a member of its men's long-distance running team.  "I'm fortunate to have the opportunity to make a new start now at Sumitomo Denko," Takezawa said.  "A lot of people have supported and encouraged me through some difficult times, and from the heart I offer my sincerest gratitude for being able to stand here today for this announcement.  Since the Olympics I haven't been able to become the kind of internationally-competitive athlete I hoped to become, but in this new environment I will dedicate myself to becoming the best I can be, not just as an athlete but as a human being. I ask for your continued support and encouragement."

Sumitomo Denko head coach Toshihiro Matsumoto commented, "With many options before him I welcome Takezawa's decision to join Sumitomo Denko.  Having an athlete who ran at the Olympics as a member of the Japanese national team join our program is a cause of great happiness for the entire team and I think it will have deep, positive effects.  I hope to help provide him with overall support in setting and achieving his goals and he in turn will give his best for the team.  We know that many supporters will be watching in great anticipation and we hope to rise to meet those expectations.  Thank you for your support."

Translator's note: Collegiate 5000 m national record holder Takezawa graduated from Waseda University and joined the Toshihiko Seko-coached S&B corporate team.  In March he quit the S&B team instead of accompanying them to new sponsor DeNA.

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