The Automotive Steel Section’s Rei Takahashi will represent the Kanto region in the sport of powerlifting at the 2023 National Sports Festival in Kagoshima Prefecture. The powerlifting competition will run from September 22 to 24 at Okinoerabu Culture Hall on Okinoerabu Island. Takahashi will be competing in the unequipped 105 kg class scheduled for September 24.

　Takahashi began competing in powerlifting in high school after the owner of his local gym—a former world champion in the bench press—pointed out that the weight he was lifting as training for baseball was a Japanese record. Takahashi went on play four years of college baseball, then shifted to powerlifting after graduation. He now trains at a 24-hour gym near his home, as well as at B.T.S.L Fitness, the powerlifting gym in his hometown. He builds up his strength at the former and engages in live practice at the latter.

　Speaking of his hopes for the competition, Takahashi said: “I’m so happy and excited to finally be able to compete on the national stage! I’ll be aiming to lift a total of 710 kg, which will be a personal best and place me high enough to compete at nationals. I hope to meet the expectations of all the people who have supported me.”