Ayumi Tanimoto works as a general volunteer at the Asian Games

Visitors were surprised to see the gold medalists handling the tickets. Ayumi Tanimoto (45), a consecutive Olympic judo champion, served as a general volunteer at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. The reason is clear: ``I've wanted to try it for a long time.'' With her bright voice and smile, she played a role in organizing the tournament.

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The day after he carried the flag at the opening ceremony on the night of the 19th, along with Olympic medalists who represent the Japanese sports world. I arrived at the modern pentathlon venue in my hometown of Anjo, Aichi Prefecture, in time for the 7:30 a.m. meeting. The role is to guide the audience. Checking tickets and providing guidance with gestures. ``I'll be the first person to see you at the venue. It's an important mission to warmly welcome you,'' he said, fulfilling his mission.

I was moved by gratitude. He has a dazzling track record, winning both the 2004 Athens and 2008 Beijing Olympics. On the other hand, the memories of being supported by many staff members are also treasured. ``I've been indebted to many countries, so now it's my turn.I applied and was accepted,'' she says with a laugh.

They receive the same training as other applicants and speak with their peers. Although he has supported the sports world as a coach and director of the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC), he says he has never had such close contact with people other than those involved. ``It's very valuable to be able to watch the tournament with the same enthusiasm as everyone,'' he said with a nod.

He also serves as the athlete chairman of the tournament organizing committee. "Only when we get really excited and have fun together can we think about what sports should be like in the future." The green uniform he wore also looked like a ``Dogi'' filled with pride.