Based on a true story
In the last ski jumping event of the Nagano Winter Olympics Team competition
1998 February 17
Japan's two competitors have finished and are in first place.
Showing the world its top strength on this grand stage.
The K-point* of the Hakuba Ski Jumping Stadium here is at 120 meters
*The K-point is the reference point used to calculate the number of points granted for a given jump.
Nagano Winter Olympic Games Ski Jump Team Competition
Japan's Okabe surpassed the K-point in the first jump
Jumping a distance of 121 meters 50
Following which, Saito's first jump also far exceeded the K-point and jumped 130 meters
A beautiful leap for us to see
44 points ahead of second place Australia
Japan has a huge opportunity to win the gold medal
Hinomaru* is flying proudly the air
*Hinomaru is the iconic red dot in the Japanese country flag
Next up is Japan's ace Harada Masahiko
Group 3, Team 13
Harada Masahiko, Japan
Why am I here?
While you're on that stage, Harada.
And now, Harada,
Starts off towards the gold medal!
Fall down!
Hinomaru Soul
The test jumpers are finished.
Four years ago Lillehammer Winter Olympic Games
Ouch...
What's there to be afraid of, you idiot?
Japan delegation Harada Masahiko
I'm not scared. What are you laughing at, Harada?
Nishikata
Japan delegation Kasai Noriaki
Person who jumps the shortest will treat everyone to sushi!
Japan delegation Okabe Takanobu
And it must be from Ginza.
Japan delegation Nishikata Jinya
It's so noisy, I can't concentrate.
Look ahead.
Team ski jumping will now begin
Japan is now in second place
Only 0.8 points behind first place Germany
The gold medal is finally within reach.
Okay, here comes Nishikata Jinya.
Go for it!
Group 1, Team 11, Jinya Nishikata
Ski jumping is a sport about fighting against fear.
From a height of 35 stories.
you slide down at speeds over 90 km/h.
Jumping within 0.01 seconds
If you lose your balance, the consequences are unthinkable.
Worst case scenario, death.
Good
135 meters, Jinya Nishikata Jinya has a big jump
Japan overtakes Germany
Japan is in first place
At last, there is a hope to win the first gold medal in ski jumping team competition.
After Nishikata, Okabe and Kasai both made beautiful jumps.
Japan is still in first place
Japan is still in first place, with a big gap between them and Germany in second place.
Jamping last is Harada Masahiko.
If Harada can jump over 105 meters
Japan will win the gold medal.
Harada jumped 122 meters in the first jump.
If Harada can finish well,
and jumps smoothly,
Japan will win the gold medal.
Go!
Towards the cherished gold medal,
Harada makes a start.
How's it going?
Lost speed! He lost speed!
He's landed, he fell short of the target.
97 meters 50
Harada failed to make it.
Japan falls to second.
Missing the gold medal.
One step away
One step away from the gold medal
Japan still couldn't get the gold medal
Did Harada succumb to the pressure?
He couldn't perform to his original strength
Germany won the gold medal.
Japan won the silver medal.
This result is very regrettable
Let's go over.
Sometimes it happens.
A silver medal is impressive enough.
Keep your head up, Harada.
Hey!
I'm sorry.
You're being funny. What's with that face?
Crying or laughing, choose one.
This is what I look like.
Come on.
Nishikata...
What are you doing, you idiot?
Ogiwara Kenji (1994 Gold medalist for Nordic combined event, Men's team)
This time we won the gold medal.
Gold medal, Nordic combined · Silver medal, Ski jumping 1994 Lillehammer Winter Olympics, returnee press conference
It's all because of your enthusiastic support and encouragement.
Silver Medal
For the next Nagano Winter Olympics, we will continue to work hard.
Okay, then.
Do you have any questions?
Please.
I have a question for ski jumper Harada Masahiko.
You lost the gold medal.
How do you feel now?
I'm filled with regret.
If you hadn't lost, Japan would have won the gold medal.
That's right.
Because I let the Japanese people down.
I'm really sorry.
How did you feel the moment you landed?
Generally speaking...
I felt like, "Oh, no"
Thank you.
- So, please look to the left of the camera. - Please.
Please smile a little bit more.
I screwed up.
Stop it already.
You're really angry too, aren't you?
Excuse me, could you hold up the medal?
Thank you.
After all, a silver medal is not good enough.
You have to win gold in the Olympics.
Okay, look here, please.
This way, please.
I'm sorry.
It's my fault...
It's my fault you didn't get the gold medal.
Don't cry, you idiot!
Harada!
Without you, we wouldn't have won a silver medal.
That's what I think.
Excuse me, can you come closer?
Thank you.
But...
Next time it's the gold medal.
We must win the gold medal in Nagano.
Yes.
Nagano Prefecture Nozawa Onsen Village
Aitoku Bed & Breakfast, Indoor Hot Spring
Okurayama Ski Jumping Competition Course Bakken Record Certificate - Nishikata Jinya
In the 34th HBC International Ski Jump Competition (K=115m) You have set a new record in the competition and are hereby issued a certificate.
Alright.
GOLD
- Put this up. - Okay.
SILVER
Okay, everyone.
In front of Jinya.
Don't mention the word "gold medal".
Congratulations, Jinya. Nishikata Jinya - Silver medal
Okay? Okay? Please.
Cheers!
Dad, why are you even drinking?
How can you do that? The guest of honor hasn't even come back yet.
Let him drink, we're all feeling bad.
We were so close to winning the gold medal.
Yukie, you're not happy either, are you?
I'm not, but a silver medal is still very impressive, isn't it?
But it's not a gold medal after all.
That's right, it's not a gold medal after all.
But four years later, in Nagano, our hometown.
We'll get the gold medal next time.
That's right.
Yukie, you can go rest now.
I'll be fine.
No, you have to be more careful now.
But Jinya is really late.
I wonder what he's doing.
Welcome home.
I'm back.
I feel a little embarrassed to show up.
You're all disappointed, right?
Yes they are.
Dad also told everyone never to mention the word "gold medal" in front of Jinya.
I see.
And yet, they made the "Congratulations, gold medal" board in advance.
They put the word "silver" on it in a hurry.
How ridiculous!
Just pretend you don't know.
Let's go. Everyone's waiting for you.
Okay. Here.
Here, a souvenir.
Thank you.
For your hard work...
thank you.
Congratulations.
Just a little bit more...
We were so close...
You're crying so hard,
our child is going to hear it.
Sorry
At Nagano,
I will definitely get the gold medal!
1440 days until the Nagano Winter Olympics
The rising star of ski jumping, the ultimate goal is the Nagano Winter Olympics.
Funaki Kazuyoshi - 19 Years Old, World Cup debut - first win
First World Cup win in his first appearance
And he's only 19 years old.
That's so early.
That's really incredible.
The eyebrows are so thin.
- They're really thin. - Right?
Ski jumping intensive training
What's wrong with you guys?
Are you exhausted?
Not even close.
How dare you say you want to win a gold medal?
Faster!
Are you going to give up?
About to give up, right?
Reminds me of when you were young
The two of you used to run until you would puke.
What's with that look?
That's right, that's right.
I have not participated in the Olympics
I didn't win any medals either.
That's why I treat you guys like a thorn in my side.
If you don't like it, go return the gold medal.
Next is jumping practice.
You want us to jump?!
Let's go, let's go!
-Are you kidding me? - Are you serious?
What the hell are you doing?
Are you serious?
Kanzaki...
I'm definitely going to get the gold medal.
Then I'll beat up Kanzaki.
Absolutely, I'll get the gold medal.
Okay, let's do it again.
Shinshu Central Hospital
Do people have memories when they're 3 years old?
What?
He'll be 3 years old at the time of the Nagano Winter Olympics.
That's right.
Sorry, sorry.
Nishikata Jinya won the World Cup for Japan.
You'll catch a cold if you sleep here.
Do you want to go and sleep?
Here, a pillow.
Thank you.
You're asleep too?
652 days until the Nagano Winter Olympics
187 days until the Nagano Winter Olympics.
It's over.
You scared me.
What's up Minamikawa?
Everyone's in seriously great shape.
The competition for the representative athletes is very fierce.
Maybe someone will get hurt.
You bastard!
I'm just kidding.
That's impressive.
It's over the K-point, right?
That was far.
Funaki is in great shape.
-That was 130. - More than that. More than that.
Funaki.
You're in great shape.
That was a long jump.
That was a great jump, wasn't it?
Yeah, it felt good.
How is it? I'd like to say a few words on behalf of the team
I hope I can keep up with this form.
I hope you can win the gold medal.
Thank you.
Obviously the medal will be...
Gold.
Thank you.
The competition for the Nagano Winter Olympics is fierce.
The best candidate is Funaki Kazuyoshi.
Nishikata Jinya - Lillehammer '94 Winter Olympics representative - Silver medalist in ski jumping team competition. Second champion of the 74th All Japan Skiers' Championship. 180cm, 65kg, 29 years old. Born in Nagasawa Onsen Village, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture.
With this team in place, the gold medal in Nagano should be no problem
The player lineup is also dominated by Japan
Harada Funaki is in great shape.
Okabe and Kasai are also in good shape.
Saito is also doing well lately.
How's Nishikata?
Nishikata Jinya
For his age, this will be his last Olympics.
The longest jumper on Lillehammer was Nishikata
I'm sure he'll be selected.
Really? There are four people in the team competition, right?
Then who should be removed?
I don't know.
Right now, everyone is in a tie.
The next round is going to be the most competitive.
After all, it's once every four years.
Is everything okay?
I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I slipped.
Sorry, my hand slipped.
Go.
Nishikata! Nishikata!
Nishikata.
Nishikata, are you okay?
Are you okay?
Nishikata! Nishikata!
Are you okay?
Can you hear me?
The doctor said...
I need to rest for now.
For now...
You idiot.
Why didn't you tell me about your back?
I'll definitely make it to the Nagano Olympics.
Nishikata, jump!
You should call Dad, Dad
Shingo, you're a Nishikata too!
Come down, Shingo!
Dad's back hurts!
Okay.
Sorry, Shingo. Let's play with the toys.
- You bring the toys. - Okay.
Toys, toys, toys...
What's wrong?
Nothing.
Nagano's going to be a difficult time.
I can't even pick up the baby at such a critical time.
Is that so?
Then let's watch the Winter Olympics at home.
You seem to have accepted it already.
It can't be helped.
After all, you're hurt.
(Yukie, pick up the phone.) - Even if that's true, you could still...
Okay.
Nishikata.
What's a gold medal?
Hello, this is Aitoku B&B.
A gold medal?
When did you learn that word?
Mom said so.
Next time you'll get a gold medal.
Mom?
We have both Japanese-style rooms and large bed rooms.
Shingo..
Dad will come back with a gold medal.
Really?
Yes, I'll definitely get the gold medal.
Okay, pull it back.
Let's try to pull it together.
Okay. - Okay.
Okay, one more time, please. Come on.
Push it down
- That's it. - Ouch.
That's good. That's good.
Nishikata-san
Let's try to do 10 reps today.
Okay. - Here we go. - Yes, please.
That's right. That's it. That's it.
Harada's overwhelming victory. The unbeatable jump is just one step away from Nagano.
158 days until the Winter Olympics Road to Nagano
130 days until the Nagano Winter Olympics
Go ahead.
Let's try to climb up!
Okay, one more time, please.
One more time, one more time.
That's right. That's it. That's it.
That's right. That's good.
You're amazing, Nishikata.
Why are you here, Minamikawa? I'm here for my back.
You're in trouble, huh?
Getting hurt at such a crucial time.
Shouldn't you be competing abroad?
I got injured too.
I failed to land and I'm in this state.
Looks like I can't make it to Nagano anymore.
I need to take time to heal.
I'll get the medals next time.
I'm still young anyway.
That's right.
I only have one chance left in Nagano.
Take your time. That's good.
- Change direction. - Yeah.
Good.
109 days until the winter Olympics in Nagano.
- Let's start. - Okay.
Don't rush.
Okay. - Okay.
Take your time, Nishikata-san.
92 days until the Nagano Winter Olympics
I'm sorry I'm late.
Ski jumping representatives
Out of 8 players, 6 have been chosen
Now the list of competitors
Harada Masahiko
Funaki Kazuyoshi
Saito Hiroya
Kasai Noriaki
Okabe Takanobu
Yoshioka Kazuya
These six players were selected as representatives
Each of them is a top performer in the national level,
and world class athletes.
Their strength and experience are impeccable
Therefore, they will compete in the Nagano Winter Olympics.
42 days until the winter Olympics in Nagano.
As for the two remaining athletes,
their results before the Olympic Games will be taken into account
before making any further selections.
In addition, the team competition list
will also be selected from these 8 players
It's okay now.
You can jump now.
I made it!
Great!
35 days until the Nagano Winter Olympics
Hirata, thank you.
It's all your effort.
I made it!
Yukijirushi Cup All-Japan Ski Jumping Competition
The 39th Yukijirushi Cup
Trial round will start at 9:30...
27 days until the Nagano Winter Olympics
This is your last chance to perform
Win it!
If you don't win this time, you won't be able to participate in the Winter Olympics.
I know.
Next is number 110.
Nishikata Jinya.
39th Yukijirushi Cup All Japan Ski Jumping Championships Normal hill competition (H.S100M) Winner: 96.5m, new record for the farthest distance. Nishikata Jinya
Runner Up: Kasai Noriaki Third Place: Shimsaki Katsutoshi
He won the championship and beat the representative, Kasai.
That's amazing!
You're too kind.
Nishikata
You were amazing. This drink is on me.
Thank you.
Let's go win the gold medal with the other members.
Yeah.
But there's no way I'll be chosen.
There's no way they won't choose you now.
Let's start the meet and greet.
Okay.
Next is the selection of ski jumping representatives for the Nagano Winter Olympics.
The remaining two competitors have been decided.
The first one is
Miyahira Hideharu
Miyahira's victory in the HTB Cup is the key reason
As for the last one,
considering the achievements of this period so far,
we have decided...
Suda Kenji
In addition to his superb strength
Suda has competed in many Winter Olympics since Alberta
He is a seasoned veteran
Together with the previously announced 6 players,
these 2 competitors, Miyahira and Suda,
will form the Winter Olympics team.
We have a good reserve of ski jumpers.
We had to make a difficult choice in the selection process.
Finally
With ace Harada as the leader,
and Funaki, Okabe, Saito, Kasai.
Ski Jump representative members selection
These members will make the strongest team ever!
The Japanese team won the silver medal at the Lillehammer Winter Olympics.
All of Japan felt very sad at that time.
This time round, the gold medal is in reach.
Why am I the only one...
Harada Masahiko
Thank you for your hard work.
I'm a little tired.
But I'll be fine.
I just can't compete in the Winter Olympics.
It's not like I'm going to die.
I'll just try my best the next time.
Welcome home.
I'm back.
I am at the Nagano Winter Olympic Stadium,
Hakuba Ski Jumping Arena.
The whole country is looking forward to the gold medal in ski jumping.
The local villagers of Hakuba Village are also giving their full support to the competition.
Their talking about the "Jing" medal.
It's not a Jing medal.
It's a gold medal.
The gold medal will be awarded to the person who jumps the farthest.
It will be awarded to the person who sees the most beautiful scenery.
- Really? - Yeah.
I'm sorry I couldn't show you the gold medal.
- Hey. - Yeah?
Let's go out to eat today.
- Really? - Yeah.
-What do you want to eat, Shingo? - What do you want to eat?
-Tuna. - Tuna?
Tuna?
Coming.
You want to eat tuna, huh?
In fact, I'm running a team of test jumpers at Nagano.
Test jumper team? Kanzaki-san?
Is that strange?
Test jumpers have to test jump every morning
To ensure the safety of the platform.
It's not glamorous, but it's dangerous.
But it is an important task to ensure the smooth running of the Winter Olympics
So Nishikata
You can be a test jumper too.
What?
You have to be there this week. Get ready.
Wait, why me?
You're not busy anyway.
I'm free, but...
But why should I be behind the scenes?
I've been working towards a gold medal for the last four years.
I won't be a test jumper.
That's up to you.
But that's like turning down an offer from the ski federation.
Don't you want to keep jumping?
Even if you're going to retire, it's good to be nice to the federation.
You'll still have to make a living after you retire, right?
It's not easy, with kids so young.
Are you kidding? I'm not retiring.
I can still jump.
Sorry. Please leave.
This is the shape of the sun.
Mom, I made a sun.
TOKIO
Don't fall down
Just hold on like this
TOKIO
TOKIO fly up to the sky
Drink more, everyone. More, more, more.
10 bottles. 10 more bottles.
Okay!
Wow, it's Nishikata Jinya. Look!
It's a shame about the Winter Olympics.
Yes, so today...
We're going to drink our sorrows away!
But I can't accept it.
You didn't make it, but Harada did.
That's because, previously it was all his fault.
If it were me, I would have chosen you.
Okay, stop it.
What? What's wrong? What's wrong?
What a waste, they have no vision
Life isn't just about the Olympics.
Isn't it?
Yeah, it's not all about the Olympics.
Right!
Cheers!
- Drink up today. - Drink!
Nishikata Jinya 13 years old 1981.1.25
Longest unbeaten record 63.0m
Nozawa Onsen Jump
Jinya, come on!
Wait a minute.
It's okay, just go for it.
Ready!
Damn it!
Damn it...
Yukie
This was your first jump.
You've brought me here before.
I'm...ready to give up jumping
Life has its ups and downs.
I've thought about it.
I'm going to be a test jumper.
And then retire.
We'll live together as a family. It is what it is, after all.
It is what it is?
No, no, don't read too much into it.
For me, being a normal father,
that's what I want.
But, Jinya...
Do you still remember what you said to me when you proposed?
"I may not be able to be with you all the time."
"I may not be a good father."
"But..."
"Considering how much I love jumping"
"If you looked at me on the jumping platform, you would understand"
"Although I may not be a good husband"
"I hope you will marry me"
I don't know if I still like jumping anymore
Then why don't you just turn down the test jumper job?
Since you don't like it anymore?
You don't want to be a test jumper, do you?
It's not that simple.
If I burn my bridges,
how can we make a living?
It'll affect you, too.
This has nothing to do with me.
If you are worried about work, we can run the bed and breakfast together
It's not so simple
It's not simple.
I didn't say it was easy either.
Even if you can't be with me all the time.
Even if you are not a good father.
If you can be happy on the jumping platform.
I think it's okay.
I don't want to see you suffer, thinking that you have no choice but to jump.
5 days until the Nagano Winter Olympics.
There's two weeks till the event.
Until then, we will live together here.
In this Nagano Olympics,
it's an important event for the future of Japanese ski jumping.
Although we are behind the scenes,
don't forget that this is an important job to ensure the success of the competition.
Yes, sir.
Okay, let's get to know each other. Whoever wants to go first can start.
My name is Fukuda Yoshiharu.
I'm honored to be appointed as a test jumper this time.
I'm very nervous, but I'll do my best.
I'm a sophomore at Otaru Technical High School, Kobayashi Yoshiko.
I've always wanted to participate in the Nagano Winter Olympics.
I'm very excited just to be here.
I may not be good enough
But with my soul and passion for ski jumping,
I will not lose to anyone.
Please take care of me.
This is the first time I've seen a female competitor
But she's so cute.
Isn't she?
I might be a girl,
but don't give me special treatment just because of that.
Okay, okay.
My name is Takahashi Ryuji.
My hearing is not good.
Since I was born, I've been unable to hear.
But if you look me in the eye,
slow down the speed of speech,
I can understand everyone's words through my lips.
Wouldn't it be dangerous to be deaf?
By the way
My best distance is 134 meters.
That's impressive.
- Next. - Okay.
Minamikawa?
I'm Minamikawa Takashi from the Hakuba Village Ski Club.
It's regrettable that I couldn't be part of the delegation this time.
But I've changed my mind and adjusted my mood.
I want to be the unsung hero of this gold medal for Japan.
Everyone, let's unite together
Let's make sure the Olympics go smoothly.
Okay, the last one, the Nishikata.
Yes.
I'm Nishikata Jinya.
Wow, a real medalist.
But why is he a test jumper?
I should be the oldest among you.
I'll try my best to be a role model for everyone.
Please take care of me.
We're leaving at 6:30 tomorrow.
No alcohol. Do you understand?
Yes.
I didn't expect you to be here.
That should be my line, Nishikata.
The room is really small.
Everyone else is packed in.
And there's no alternate delegation like us.
Nishikata, why did you agree to be a test jumper?
Of course, I wanted to support Japan behind the scenes to win a medal.
Here we go again.
It's just to save face for the ski federation, isn't it?
I know, that's what I'm thinking too.
In your introduction, you sounded all bright and shiny.
As long as I don't get hurt,
I still have a chance anyway.
- Good morning. - Good morning.
Takahashi, get up.
Taka...
That's right, he can't hear us.
Get up!
Takahashi!
Get up!
I overslept.
The day of a test jumper starts early.
We had to leave the dormitory before dawn and walk to the competition site.
Hey, who told you to walk so leisurely?
Run!
Faster!
You're kidding!
Kanzaki!
The job of a test jumper,
is to remove the snow from the tracks using our skis.
Grinding, grinding.
Grinding out the route
Go!
Until it's safe for the competitors to jump.
No stopping, jumping continously.
No applause, no cheers.
No records, no memories.
This is the life during the Olympic Games, day in and day out..
Lean your upper body forward a little more.
Kobayashi, step a little harder on your feet.
I'm not kidding.
Do it, or you'll get it from me!
Kobayashi, answer me!
Do you hear me, Kobayashi? Come in!
Give me the walkie-talkie, please. - Got it?
-Yes. - Come on, get up there and jump.
Yes, I'm sorry.
Doesn't feel like a jumping competition, does it?
How can you be serious on a test jump?
Hey, where are you going?
If you don't rest properly, you'll get hurt again.
3 days to go until the Winter Olympics.
Next we will interview the Hinomaru jump team who arrived at the competition venue.
Please take care of me.
Harada, how is your condition?
Good, very good!
You did well in the World Cup, didn't you?
And Funaki?
I'm feeling not bad.
As expected of you all.
Leader Kasai, please tell us your goal.
As long as we jump normally, it's fine.
I hope you can surpass your limits.
And Saito?
I'll definitely concentrate on my performance.
Thank you.
I have a few more questions for you.
First of all, for the regular individual track...
Are you sure you don't mind sitting here?
You don't need to ask me that.
How many times has she jumped today?
She's pushing herself too hard, just for test jumps.
Go.
Hey, hey!
Kobayashi!
Yoshiko!
Are you okay, Kobayashi?
Are you okay?
Does it hurt anywhere?
Kobayashi!
Can you move?
I'm fine, I'm sorry.
Are you okay?
Yes, she said she's fine.
I'm fine.
That's great.
I'm so sorry.
Kobayashi, leave the team immediately and go back to Otaru.
- Kanzaki, you shouldn't be doing that - It's my fault.
I'll try harder.
Please let me continue test jumping.
Please.
Go home today.
Kobayashi.
Overtraining can be counterproductive
Nishikata.
I saw it. Don't listen to Kanzaki...
I don't want to lose.
Wherever I go, I'll be underestimated just because I'm a girl.
I have to be better than anyone else.
Yeah, but this isn't a competition either.
You have to conserve your strength properly.
What do you mean by "properly"?
Even if it's behind the scenes, it's an important Olympics for me.
Nishikata-san, you probably don't understand.
Yeah, that's right.
You should have already won the gold medal.
This is beneath you, isn't it?
The day before the Nagano Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony
Where are you going?
The wind is too dangerous.
I won't jump.
Just because of a little wind?
You're just trying to be lazy.
I know all about it.
You have been lazy.
So don't do anything to get in our way.
Why so serious?
It's just test jumping.
It's not worth it to get hurt because of that.
I'm not like you guys.
I'm going to the next Olympics.
Minamikawa.
You will jump first.
What's wrong? Hurry up and jump!
I can't do it
I'm sorry.
Wait...Minamikawa!
That's all you've got, after all!
If today was the day of the competition, your behavior would be a disgrace to Japan.
He was too scared to jump.
He still can't get over the fear of getting injured.
Listen carefully, this is not an ordinary competition.
It's the Olympics.
And we are the hosts again after Sapporo* (*Sapporo was host to Winter Olympics in 1972)
The world is focused on Japan.
The athletes are all under pressure and fighting to the death.
The future of Japanese ski jumping is at stake.
Don't think this is just a normal behind-the-scenes job.
If you don't know what you're doing, get out now!
For the sake of Japan, for the sake of the future of jumping.
Is this so important?
You should consider the feelings of Minamikawa
He's been working hard for the Olympics so far.
And so what?
What about the feelings you think we should have to be test jumpers?
Are you trying to say that a silver medalist shouldn't be doing such a thing?
When you won the silver medal,
there were test jumpers just like us.
Of course I know.
Nishikata-san!
Come back, Nishikata.
We continue.
Yes.
It's fine when the weather is good.
But,
whenever I feel the wind,
I remember the jump where I got injured.
Minamikawa, let's have a drink today.
I stole Mr. Kanzaki's whiskey.
Nicely done, Takahashi.
I'm impressed with you.
I've been pissed at him for a long time too.
Let's drink it all.
No, don't.
If you drink it all, you'll be exposed.
Just pour some oolong tea or something back.
Wow, that's devious!
Drink some.
Okay.
Now then.
Cheers!
Nishikata
I'd like to hear about your time in Lillehammer.
Why do you suddenly want to hear this?
Because the Winter Olympics in Lillehammer was legendary.
I don't remember much about it.
Anyway, I was mostly in a daze.
But...
At the moment of landing,
I heard cheers.
It was as if the ground was shaking with cheers.
And that is the moment, I will never forget.
Amazing
I'm so envious.
Because I can't hear the cheers.
I'm sorry.
It's okay. Please don't mind.
But...
You're always happy when you jump, right?
Because of this,
my life has a lot of limitations
But when I am in the air,
I am free.
The joy of being in the air?
I have forgotten about such things .
Nishikata-san
Why did you choose ski jumping?
I gave up everything...
Because I've always been jumping for the sake of gold medals
What the hell am I doing here?
Hold his nose.
1998, February 7 Nagano Olympics Opening Ceremony
Today is February 7th.
With the whole world watching
the opening ceremony of the 18th Winter Olympics
is being held at Minami Nagano Sports Park.
This is the last Winter Olympics opening ceremony of the 20th century.
The number of participating countries is 72, the largest ever.
This kid
He said he wanted to go to the Olympics.
Jinya is not around again.
I didn't know when
he's become so fond of ski jumping.
Really?
If you come and watch,
I feel like I can do very well.
Yeah, thanks.
I gotta go. Good night.
Good night. Good job.
[Yukie]
I don't want to see you suffer, thinking that you have no choice but to jump.
The much-anticipated ski jumping competition will begin today.
The first event will be the normal hill individual competition.
Will Japan be able to win a medal?
Go for it, Japan!
Also, the most notable competitor is Funaki Kazuyoshi.
He's had an amazing season.
The test jumps are over
The competition is about to start
Harada Masahiko Smiles for the Gold
Normal hill individual competition
How was the jump?
The jump is very good.
Still going on, still going on.
Good!
The results are in. Silver is in the bag.
Funaki won the silver medal.
Great "victory pose".
He has the audience in his sights.
Funaki's [Silver] jump The second jump that brought him back from the dead
Wait, what are you doing?
Let's go!
Stop it!
Come on.
Wh-what's going on?
Thank you for taking care of my daughter.
I'm Yoshiko's father.
She came here without my knowledge.
While I was away on business.
She became a test jumper without permission.
I'm sorry for the trouble my daughter caused you.
Yoshiko, let's go.
I said no. I'm not going back.
What are you talking about?
Girls aren't supposed to do ski jumping.
You've never even seen me.
You never wanted to see me compete.
Stop it!
And you're just a test jumper.
You're the worst!
I don't want to see you anymore.
Did you hide it from your father?
Because even if I told him the truth,
he wouldn't have approved.
My dad was always against me ski jumping.
And he never came to see me compete.
I'm not in pain anymore.
What's wrong?
So what if I want to drink?
Your father must also be...
afraid of his daughter's ski jumping.
He's scared.
That's why he's afraid to watch.
Even if that's the case,
that has nothing to do with me.
Is the job of a test jumper that important to you?
I'm also aiming for the Olympics.
I know,
there's no women's ski jumping in the Olympics.
So I definitely won't be able to compete in the Olympics.
Even if I can jump farther than the men, it's useless.
But knowing that I won't be able to participate,
makes me look forward to the Olympics even more.
I really envy the men who can aim for the Olympics.
That's why,
to be chosen as a test jumper,
I was really happy.
I get to jump in Nagano.
I get to jump in the Olympic Games.
No matter what people say,
I'm not going to give up.
Until then,
when women's ski jumping becomes an official Olympic sport...
(I will put in my) soul and passion!
I see.
Nishikata-san
Please teach me ski jumping.
What?
Please.
Okay.
Alright! Thank you.
Oolong tea.
Abe, keep your back up.
Yes, sir.
Nishikata-san, please take a look at my simulation.
Kobayashi, move the upper part of your body forward in one breath.
Okay.
Great, don't forget what you just felt.
Okay
One more time
One more time.
Nishikata-san
I also want to do my best.
So,
Please advise me.
What?
At this rate,
my ski jumping career will be over.
How can I overcome my fear and jump?
I see... If you are so afraid...
How about a drink before jumping?
No, you're not taking it seriously.
I was just kidding.
But,
I've been there before.
It's not easy to erase the fear you've experienced.
So, how did you do it?
Next is number 110.
Nishikata Jinya. Nishikata Jinya.
For the first time ever,
I was jumping for someone else.
If the desire to jump is greater than the fear,
you can definitely jump too.
What does that mean?
Who is that person?
Nishikata-san
What should I do?
Takahashi, you have nothing to correct.
If I had to say,
it's the sound of your snoring.
Snoring?
Snoring.
That's right, I can even hear it from the hallway!
N-o-i-s-y!
It's so noisy.
Those who are ready go up first
Yes, sir.
Damn it!
Are you kidding me?
Kasai!
I didn't get selected for the team competition.
My Olympic career is over.
Don't you want to watch the games?
How can I watch it?
I'm going back to Hokkaido soon.
Harada.
Well done Harada in the 136m (Large hill individual competition) [Bronze]
Congratulations on your first medal.
Thank you.
The day before the ski jumping team competition
(You made a big jump in the second jump of the competition)
The test jumps will be finished tomorrow?
You did a great job.
That jump...
Test Jumper waiting room
It finally gave me a sense of relief.
Tomorrow's team competition
I'm really excited about it.
But before the battle of the century.
The medal that Harada got yesterday is very important.
After all, there's the stain of the loss at Lillehammer.
As the weakest one to go first,
Harada-san was under a lot of pressure.
Jumping with Hinomaru on your back,
how does it feel?
I can't even imagine it.
Maybe that's what it's like to jump with soul and passion.
You're making fun of me, right?
I'm just kidding.
I see... Hinomaru Soul.
What?
That's how you feel when you jump with the Hinomaru on your back.
What is this?
That's a good point.
For me, the team competition is everything.
I've been working hard for four years.
For the team competition tomorrow,
we must win the gold medal
I'm going to make it up to you.
Harada is very passionate, isn't it.
I'm sure we're not getting any rest today because of the final adjustments.
Excuse me.
Harada-san!
Thank you for your hard work.
Harada-senpai, what brings you here?
Oh, I had a little business.
Well, congratulations on your bronze medal.
Thank you.
- Congratulations. - Thank you.
Thank you. Thank you.
I'm counting on you for the team competition tomorrow.
Come on, we'll support you.
Sorry, Nishikata.
Can I borrow your undershirt?
Hello?
Nishikata
Excuse me, can I borrow your undershirt?
What?
I think I forgot. I didn't bring enough.
What do you mean, you forgot? It's the Olympics for goodness sake.
Sorry, sorry.
Tomorrow, with the help of your team,
I'll definitely get the gold medal.
Well, at least bring your own undershirts.
Thank you.
I saw how hard you worked on the test jumps.
It really felt like your team and ours were jumping together.
What is this?
I wanted
to try to understand what you're feeling.
What do you know?
What do you know about me?
I don't want to be a test jumper or whatever.
Even now,
that's what I really think.
You don't know how I feel, do you?
I didn't make the team because I'm not good enough.
I know that much is true.
It's no one's fault but my own.
But...
I haven't forgiven you yet.
If you hadn't made a mistake.
I would have gotten the gold medal.
Nishikata
I also feel ashamed of myself.
But I...
don't want to see your gold medal at all.
Even so, I...
still have to get the gold medal!
The gold medal!
The highlight of the Nagano Olympics.
The ski jumping team competition is about to start.
Will we be able to make a clean break in Nagano?
To witness the moment when the Hinomaru team wins the gold medal.
Forty-five thousand spectators are on their way to the venue.
The day of the ski jumping team competition
Test jumps are over
The competition is about to begin.
Hey, Nishikata!
Yukie!
Shingo refused to listen, he had to come and watch.
I see.
I've decided to retire.
Yeah...
I wish I hadn't become a test jumper.
I guess I should listen to my wife.
Nishikata, jump!
I'm sorry, Shingo.
Dad won't jump this time.
Okay, I'm going.
Okabe Takanobu - First jump
Good jump! Good jump! Good jump!
He's landed!
Okabe has successfully jumped a good distance beyond the k-point.
Yeah!
Saito Hiroya - First jump
Good! Keep going! Keep going!
Landed! Saito made it!
Good job.
Great jump over the k-point. Nice big jump!
You've given us hope, Saito.
130 meter event, Japan is in first place.
(I can already see them receiving their medals)
My Olympic career
is over.
No, it's not.
My entire career is over.
It was over four years ago.
(The weather is pretty bad today)
Harada, although the weather is bad, it's almost time to get ready.
Harada-san, we're counting on you.
(Next up is Volkov, Russia)
(The wind is very strong)
(He landed too quickly and couldn't make the distance)
(When he landed, he staggered back and forth into a slide)
Okay.
Nagano Olympics Ski Jumping
The final event, the team competition.
Japan is now in first place after two jumpers
The Japanese athletes have shown their world class ability on the Olympics stage.
For who's sake
am I still being here?
Hinomaru is flying high.
So, Japan's ace competitor Harada Masahiko is on the stage
Here he is at last! A huge cheer.
Everyone is eagerly anticipating
Harada is coming on now!
Why am I here?
While you're on that stage,
Harada.
Harada Masahiko, Japan
Oh, the snow is really coming down hard.
The situation doesn't look good, does it?
For Harada, the weather is probably his worst enemy.
Harada's visibility is severely limited, isn't it?
To jump in such difficult conditions.
(In such a situation)
(What well can Harada jump?)
(Japan's strongest ski jumping team ever!)
Fall down
Harada!
You've got this.
Go!
Go! Go!
He fell!
Harada, he fell down!
He fell short!
Before the 90 meter line.
He stalled early and fell.
I didn't expect that of Harada.
Lillehammer's nightmare is repeating itself.
Harada, what are you doing?
No one wants to see the same scenario again.
So the distance is
79.5 meters
The distance was not reached.
Japan's ranking has fallen
He fell too early
Was it too hasty?
Harada failed to extend the flight distance
He slumped his shoulders in disappointment
Nishikata-san
It's not good.
If we don't regroup
The Japanese team is in a dilemma.
The fourth team...
-Harada! - 4th place
They've already lost.
Harada, why didn't you jump properly?
The competition has been temporarily suspended due to bad weather.
The competition is temporarily suspended.
It's over?
They're saying it's suspended
Let's go find a warmer place and wait for Dad.
Okay
The game is being interrupted
The judges are deliberating.
Please wait a moment.
I didn't expect the game to be stopped.
(The committee and the judges will meet to discuss)
It's normal to stop the game when it's snowing so hard.
(The judging panel is composed of members from Japan, Norway, Germany, Australia and other countries.)
The result of the competition will be determined by the results of the first jump.
In this case
(According to the results of the first jump, first Australia, second Germany)
Japan won't get a medal?
(Third, Norway, and fourth, Japan.)
I'm afraid that if the competition continues in this condition
At this rate
Harada-senpai will be treated as the villain again.
That's terrible!
How can he do well in such heavy snow?
He's the reason why we're able to jump.
The world doesn't care about that.
(But in this situation, to adjust the starting point...)
Earlier, downstairs,
I met Harada.
He was saying "Sorry!"
He was smiling as usual.
He's really unlucky.
For four years, from Lillehammer to now.
He's been treated like a villain.
He's being picked on.
It's not uncommon to get threatening phone calls.
He told me about it.
I asked him how you could survive the hard training in such a situation.
Guess what he said?
He said if he hadn't failed,
Okabe, Kasai, Nishikata.
Everyone would have won the gold medal.
It was he who changed everyone's life.
So, he was the only one who couldn't give up easily.
With such determination to win,
he returned to the Olympic Games.
But that idiot
he made another mistake.
Chief Muroya!
The decision of the judging committee has been made.
Can we restart the competition?
The decision will be made by the jumps of the 25 test jumpers.
If one of them fails,
the judging committee will decide that the track is dangerous,
and the competition will be suspended.
No way!
In order to restart the competition,
the entire 25-member team must successfully complete the jump in this weather
Successfully complete the jump.
And...
it is not enough to complete the jump,
You must also clear away the snow that blocks the slide
Prove that you can jump a good flying distance
That's not possible. It's too dangerous.
In a snowstorm like this, even the national team can't do anything about it.
We're not guinea pigs.
I understand that.
But even so,
I am here to beg of you,
we can't let the team competition stop here.
This Nagano Olympics,
winning the gold medal,
is the dream of Japan ski jumping.
Please!
Are you asking us to jump with the Hinomaru on our backs?
I refuse, Chief Muroya.
As Nishikata said, it's too dangerous.
I cannot give the order for them to jump.
I did say that you should jump for the future.
But not be victims for the sake of a medal.
If someone gets hurt by jumping here.
It would be a great loss to the Japanese ski jumping world.
You are not just a random selection of test jumpers.
I firmly believe that all of you here...
all of you are the future of the Japanese ski jumping.
Kanzaki-san
Nishikata
Why do you think I chose you to be a test jumper?
You didn't really think I picked you because you were free, did you?
I see.
Kanzaki, you're right.
I understand.
I'll tell the judging committee what you said.
Please wait a moment.
So what will the Winter Olympics be like?
Is this the end?
I don't want it to end like this.
I'll do it.
- Please let me jump. - No.
You can't put your life in danger for a medal.
It's not for a medal or for Hinomaru.
I want to jump for myself.
You don't understand.
You don't understand how dangerous it is to jump in this bad weather.
- Of course I know that. - Calm down.
I understand how you feel, but...
The Olympic Games is my dream.
Because I'm a girl.
I may never have the chance to be on the Olympic stage again.
So I...
I don't want the Olympics to end in the middle like this.
Nishikata-san,
are you really willing to give up like this?
Do you really want the Olympics to end in this way?
I absolutely do not want it.
I...
I also want to jump.
Takahashi.
Think about it,
it's all depending on us now,
winning the gold medal.
We're going to jump for a medal at the Olympics.
There will never be such an opportunity again
If I don't jump this time
I will ... I will regret it for the rest of my life.
Please.
Please let me jump.
Me too, please.
We'll make it, please.
Please.
I only have one condition.
If you think it's dangerous, you must quit immediately.
You must put your own safety first,
understood?
Understood!
Shingo. Let's go home.
We'll wait for Dad at home
Nishikata
Huh? What are you saying all of a sudden?
I heard that whether the competition can be restarted is determined by the jumps of the test jumpers.
I understand.
We're about to start the test jumps.
Japan's gold medal depends on Nishikata's team.
How do we decide the jumps?
The first jump is the most difficult,
because the track is in the most snowy state.
That's right.
I will jump first.
Of course the most difficult should be given to the best skier.
But Minamikawa, you...
I'd like to do a favor for the league.
Who I need to jump for,
I now understand what you said.
You can do it.
Now I know I can make it.
Nishikata-san
Go!
I'm off!
Alright!
Amazing!
Oh yeah!
I did it!
Go!
I'm off!
Go!
In the first half of the course, it's better not to have gaps, so we jump one after the other.
If we delay, snow will accumulate on the track again.
But
Do not panic.
If one person fails.
It's the end.
What are you afraid of?
We have only one way to go.
Soul and passion!
Hinomaru soul.
I mean, maybe...
all of us here,
maybe it's the Hinomaru Soul.
Hinomaru Soul, are we going to do it?
Yes!!
- Lets go! - Okay.
Eh? Why are they jumping again?
I thought they were going to stop the race.
Nice jump! Great jump!
Good job.
I don't think the wind is going to stop. Check the situation.
- It's freezing. - When's the race starting again?
Dad might be jumping.
Okay.
The judging committee has informed me
that they want to confirm the state of the track.
As such, they are raising the starting position.
We're going to change the starting point.
- They're raising it? - Looks like it's being raised.
That's impossible.
It's going to be a lot more difficult with the increased height.
If you quit now, no one will blame you.
I'm fine with it.
Because...
I'm your apprentice.
That's crazy. It's too hard.
It'll be fine.
I trust her.
Yoshiko.
Yoshiko!
Hinomaru Soul
Go!
Kobayashi, move the upper part of your body forward in one breath.
Great!
That was awesome!
Yoshiko
Yoshiko!
I'm so glad. Thank goodness.
Yoshiko
Keep going.
Yes!
Thank goodness.
Next.
In the second half of the sliding speed will also increase.
Those jumping in the back should watch their jump distance.
How can you see the distance in a snowstorm like this?
Leave it to me.
My personal best distance
was 134 meters.
Hinomaru Soul
Takahashi
Takahashi...
Takahashi
Goggles on
It was good,
the whiskey.
Just slide as usual.
Enjoy yourself.
Go!
Let's go!
Yes!
I heard it!
Nishikata!
I heard it!
The last jump,
only Nishikata can do it.
Nishikata, please!
Nishikata-san's last jump!
Please show them a big jump that will convince the judges
You're the only one who can do it.
We will clear the way for you, Nishikata-san.
Nishikata!
Come on, let's get started.
Let's go back. It's not starting anyway.
It's over. Let's go home.
Shingo!
Daddy's going to jump!
How long is the test jump going to last?
Let's go home. I can't take it anymore.
You're the one who drank my whiskey, right?
You're bringing this up now?
I will forgive you if you exceed the K-point.
And the judging committee won't have a problem.
Kanzaki-san.
I...
I wanted him to fall.
When Harada was jumping.
I was hoping he would fall.
I'm the worst.
We were teammates who fought together.
A person like me would never be chosen to represent an athlete.
I didn't make it to the Olympics either.
The feeling of not being selected,
I understand it more than you know.
I...
I really didn't know what I was doing here.
All I've been thinking about was why I'm a test jumper.
Or giving up ski jumping altogether.
I've been depressed.
But
I really can't hate ski jumping, after all.
I'll...
help Harada win the gold medal.
Go!
The first time I jumped was when I was 10 years old,
my legs were weak because of fear.
But the moment I jumped off,
the view from up there was so beautiful.
It made me feel like I could reach anywhere
I can still jump
Nishikata
Jump!
Yes!
Alright!
Great!
The competition is about to resume.
Next... Next...
It's their turn.
I didn't expect it to be the same as the Lillehammer Winter Olympics four years ago.
Once again, Japan's gold medal is entrusted to this man.
Next is the second jump by Harada Masahiko.
You didn't go back?
That guy is an idiot.
There,
he's trying to make us feel we're jumping together.
He's wearing my gloves.
He said he forgot to bring them.
Tell the truth next time, you idiot!
Will Harada be able to regain his position?
This time, we're going for the gold medal.
Harada!
Jump!
What will happen this time?
It's a high jump! It's high! It's high!
He's still flying! He's still flying!
Very high, very high, very high, very high.
Higher, higher, higher, higher!
He did it!
Harada has successfully completed a huge jump.
Harada did an amzaing jump.
Harada performed a perfect jump at the end.
A beautiful jump in such a snowstorm
The distance was 137 meters, far beyond the K-point.
His jump* has shocked the world! (*His jump matched the olympic record at that time)
A big jump that will go down in history.
Finally! Harada!
He has finally gained redemption for the Lillehammer Winter Olympics.
Funaki is jumping too.
Still going, still going, still going, still going, landed!
Funaki has shown his strength on the last jump.
Japan has won the gold medal.
Japan has won the gold medal!
Japan has finally won the gold medal it has always wanted.
This time, your jump has made a beautiful comeback.
It was so hard!
The thought that I might hold everyone back again,
it was so painful.
I didn't do it alone, we did it together, together.
Stop crying Harada, you idiot!
He can't stop after all.
Oh, I can't!
Jinya!
Thank you for your hard work.
This is the most exhausting jump I've ever done in my life.
But...
I also saw the most beautiful scenery in my ski jumping career.
Yukie, uhm...
I don't want to give up, after all.
What?
Jumping
I'm thinking of sticking with it for a while.
Well.... it can't be helped.
You really like ski jumping, don't you?
Shingo, was dad's jump good?
Nishikata.
Here, I'll give you the gold medal.
Congratulations.
Your gold medal...
Jinya.
Shingo!
Don't call me by my last name.
Call me Dad.
Dad!
Wow, that's amazing.
Nishikata Jinya continued to be a top-level competitor for the next three years.
16 years after the Nagano Olympics, the women's ski jump became an official event at the Sochi Olympics. (Side note: Yoshiko did not participate)
Dedicated to the heroes behind the scenes.