Kazuki Yazawa - a buddhist priest, who’s competing at 2016 Olympics in Rio.

This one is an interesting story about a canoeist from Japan - Kazuki Yazawa (27), whose every morning begins with prays. And not, as many of you have thought, hitting the gym as would any other Olympic athlete first thing in the morning. 

Buddhist priest Kazuki Yazawa competes during the kayak (K1) men’s heats of the Canoe Slalom at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Credit: KYODO

His day begins in Buddhist temple. He has a full-time job as a priest, while cannoing he enjoys in his free time. 

Yazawa during his interviews admits his decision to become a priest  was not purely spiritual decision. Dreams of endorsement deals and a bit of fame never came true, after his return from the 2012 Olympic games in London. Even though he reached 9 place and set a Japanese record. In order to support himself he decided to secure  a full-time job. 

In 2013 Yazawa has decided to take a 2-year brake from training and focus on his new calling. It wasn’t until he won the Japanese Canoe Slalom National Tournament in 2015 that he turned back to the sport. 

Despite the full-time job, he increased his training days in order to show results in Rio 2016. 

He believes that his faith helped him in preparing for the Olympics, strengthening his focus and positive vibes. 

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Credit: asahi.com