National Glory as Figure Skater Yuzuru Hanyu Receives People’s Honor Award | JAPAN Forward

23-year old Yuzuru Hanyu is the first skater in 66-years to win back-to-back gold medals in men’s figure skating. He managed this feat at the PyeongChang Olympic Games with his first place win last February. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed a proud nation’s gratitude as he presented Hanyu with the People’s Honor Award at the Prime Minister’s office on July 2.



“While overcoming the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami disasters and recovering from serious complicated injuries before the Olympics, Mr. Hanyu’s (gold medal) accomplishments deeply impressed the nation, providing bright hope to society and delivering a powerful message of restoration.”



The People’s Honor Award is given by the Prime Minister to individuals and organizations who are widely respected and have made distinguished achievements in areas such as sports and entertainment. Hanyu was honored with the 27th award, the first figure skater and youngest-ever individual recipient.



Hanyu who is a native from Sendai in the Tohoku region of Japan, was sponsored by All Nippon Airways (ANA) for the 2018 Olympics.

Full Story: https://goo.gl/FYTf7n

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