Photo/Illutration Kazuyasu Minobe, center, on Aug. 10 receives a 100-million-yen cash bonus from his employer Nexus Co. for winning a gold medal in the men’s fencing team epee event at the Tokyo Olympics. A celebration event was held at the company’s headquarters in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture. (Shinichi Koizumi)

TAKASAKI, Gunma Prefecture--Kazuyasu Minobe, who won Japan’s first Olympic gold medal in fencing in the men’s team epee event on July 30, trembled when he received a surprise 100-million-yen ($903,500) cash bonus.

“I am feeling a shiver of emotion, something different from the jitters (I felt during the match),” Minobe, 34, said on Aug. 10 at a ceremonial event held at the headquarters of Nexus Co. in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture.

The entertainment company employs and has supported four fencers, including Minobe, who competed at the Tokyo Olympics. All four performed well, placing fifth or higher.

The four, along with their coach, attended the event, where approximately 60 company employees greeted them with applause.

President Satoshi Hoshino made a surprise announcement there that the company would provide Minobe with a big financial reward.

“I want to tell younger (fencers) that if you do great, a big dream like this awaits,” said Minobe, who appeared to have his heart in his mouth.

Hoshino, a former fencer himself, said the Japanese epee team’s gold medal was a historic moment. Japanese fencers have participated in the Games since the 1960 Rome Olympics.

Hoshino extolled the five for their efforts.

“Under the unprecedented circumstances where the (Olympics) were postponed for a year, they stayed in top shape, pushed back against stress and pressure and achieved an outstanding result,” he said.

“I want them to get plenty of rest first and prepare for the next Olympics,” he added.

Minobe said in a speech that the epee team’s gold medal “could not have been achieved without any one of its members.”

He said he sometimes became overwhelmed in the past year but “support from all of you helped me get through without losing sight of my target.”

Minobe said he wants to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics, help grow the sport and increase the number of players.

“I will lead my juniors steadfastly,” he said.

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