Baron Nishi, Japan's Equestrian Gold Medalist 92 Years Ago, Inspires a New Olympic Team

On July 29 in Paris, Japan's equestrian team won the bronze medal in the eventing jumping team final. It was Japan's first Olympic equestrian medal since the 1932 Los Angeles Games. 

This achievement resurrects the memory of Takeichi Nishi, known as Baron Nishi, who won gold 92 years earlier. Baron Nishi's story concluded tragically as he fell during the fierce battle of Iwo Jima at the end of World War II. He died there in 1945.

Having lost his father, a former diplomat and ambassador to China, at a young age, Nishi inherited the baronial title and estate. He graduated from the Imperial Japanese Army Academy and became a well-regarded figure in elite social circles. Known as Baron Nishi, he cultivated relationships with notable Hollywood figures like Charlie Chaplin.

On the final day of the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, the spotlight was on the equestrian events. They attracted a crowd of about 100,000 spectators to the main stadium. Competing as an Army Cavalry Lieutenant, Nishi showcased exceptional skill and agility in the individual jumping event, expertly navigating the course's obstacles.

Following his victory, Nishi emotionally exclaimed, "We won," a testament to his deep connection with his horse. The crowd responded with a standing ovation and chants of "Baron Nishi!"

In the closing months of World War II, Nishi, a tank regiment commander, fought in the battle of Iwo Jima. Legend has it he kept locks from the mane of his Olympic horse, Uranus, with him until his last moments. His remains have yet to be found.

Equestrian Competition at Paris 2024

Returning to the present, 92 years after Nishi's triumph, four riders secured a new medal for Japan. All four were born in the Showa era and averaged 41.5 years old. Dubbing themselves "Middle-aged Japan," they overcame numerous challenges and achieved a historic feat in Versailles, France.

Toshiyuki Tanaka, 39, was elated. He shared, "There was pressure, but I enjoyed it. It was incredible that all four of us could win a medal together. It feels like a miracle and is truly unbelievable." 

Ryuzo Kitajima, 38, recounted his rollercoaster of emotions: "I thought we had lost our chance at a medal after failing the horse inspection. But then a miracle happened."

Yoshiaki Oiwa, the oldest team member at 48, reflected on the journey. "It feels like we've finally made it here."

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(Read the report in Japanese.)

Author: The Sankei Shimbun