Running with Purpose

Yuma Yamamoto’s Journey from SEKISUI to the World Stage

Yuma Yamamoto, a dedicated track and field athlete, joined SEKISUI CHEMICAL in 2023. Her athletic career reached a peak in 2024 when she secured second place in the women’s 5,000-meter run at the Japanese Championships, earning her a spot at the Paris Olympic Games. In 2025, she proudly represented Japan again at the World Championships in Tokyo, competing in the same discipline.

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The Olympic experience

“I felt strongly that I want to keep practicing so that I can compete with the best athletes in the world and make it to the finals on the Olympic stage,” Yuma summarises her ambition for the 2024 Paris Olympics after qualifying. “It was my first time competing and I felt the excitement and nerves“, she shared, still vibrant of emotions from the race. She described the experience as a dream come true, finishing 17th at the Olympic Games.

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“It was my first time competing and I felt the excitement and nerves. I will grow from this experience.”

- Yuma Yamamoto

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The power of support: a moment to remember

Yuma’s Olympic journey was made even more meaningful by the support she received from her coaches and family, but also from her colleagues at SEKISUI. On the morning of her race, she received a heartfelt video message from coworkers who had joined the company alongside her. Featuring encouraging words from friends from her school and university days, the video helped ease her nerves. “I believe that the presence of these girls pushed me to do better,” she said with gratitude.

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Looking ahead: growth through challenge

At the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, Yuma placed 18th in the women’s 5,000-meter run with a time of 15:36.29. While the result may not have met her highest hopes, her determination remains unwavering. With every race, she continues to grow, not only as an athlete, but as a symbol of perseverance and passion within the SEKISUI community.

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