Kei Komatsuyama × UPSEA: The Next Generation of SUP Riders

Kei Komatsuyama, UPSEA's top partner, is attracting attention as the next-generation star in Japan's SUP scene. His passion and skill have already been proven in domestic and international competitions, and many fans and industry insiders have high expectations for his success.

A talented athlete from Amakusa, Kumamoto Prefecture

Kei Komatsuyama is from Amakusa, Kumamoto Prefecture. He started competing in elite-class SUP (Stand Up Paddle) races when he was in the 5th grade of elementary school, traveling all over Japan, showcasing his talent from a young age. In 2014, at just 12 years old, he passed the qualifying rounds for the All Japan Championships and completed the elite class (10km) race. The following year, in 2015, he won the 3km class at "Mynavi The Japan Cup," the largest SUP competition in Japan, and achieved consecutive victories in the same class in 2016.

Exceptional skills and achievements

Komatsuyama has achieved excellent results in many competitions, leveraging his years of experience and advanced techniques.

【Past Achievements】

• 2020: SPPL All Japan Pro League Sprint Race 1st Place
• 2019: ICF World Championship Japan Representative
  • Long Distance 2nd Place
  • Technical Race 2nd Place
  • Sprint Race 1st Place
• Supa All Japan Championships
  • Technical Race 2nd Place
  • Long Distance 2nd Place
• APP Osaka World Championship Long Distance 1st Place
• 2018: ISA World Championship Japan Representative 8th Place
• 2018: SUPA All Japan Championships Technical Race 3rd Place

Return to Competition in 2025 and Challenge World Championships

Komatsuyama will return to competition in 2025 and embark on a new challenge. In particular, he aims to make a comeback at the World Championships in Korea in October and reach even greater heights. His characteristic endurance and strategic race execution are points that are highly anticipated for his future success.

Environmental awareness and involvement with UPSEA

Through surfing and SUP, Komatsuyama also has a strong interest in environmental issues. In particular, he thinks deeply about the problems of marine plastic waste and microplastics and takes action. He is not just an athlete, but he actively speaks out to protect the ocean and is actively involved in UPSEA's activities.

UPSEA's fins and surf accessories are made from recycled marine plastic, and Komatsuyama resonates with this philosophy. He says, "It's wonderful that the equipment I use contributes to environmental protection. As an athlete, I feel a responsibility to protect the ocean."

Future Outlook

Kei Komatsuyama trains daily with the aim of achieving further success in international competitions. His dream is to actively address environmental issues while excelling as a top athlete worldwide, and to connect a sustainable future for the ocean to the next generation through SUP and surfing. His challenge has just begun. Keep an eye on his future endeavors!