Yoshioka and her sailing partner Keiju Okada competed in the Paris Olympics this past August. In the final race for the top 10 spots, their strategy of reading the wind proved successful, and they finished in third place. The pair finished in second place overall, upsetting Spain to secure the silver medal. This was the first time in 20 years since the 2004 Athens Olympics that a Japanese team won a medal in a sailing event, effectively authoring a new page in the history of Japanese competitive sailing.

Expressing her gratitude, Yoshioka said, “I am filled with a sense of accomplishment and happiness to finally win a silver medal in my third trip to the Olympics. This medal is a testament to all of our hard work. "Immediately after the race, it didn’t feel like I had won a medal until I felt the weight of it around my neck. Then, the joy of having worked so hard and never giving up washed over me. I was able to keep pursuing sailing thanks to my time at Ritsumeikan University. Your support was instrumental in helping me win the silver medal.”

Chairperson Morishima expressed his respect for Ms. Yoshioka by saying, “I believe you have continuously channeled your frustration into motivation, striving tirelessly under the constant expectation of being a medal contender. You are a top talent when it comes to hard work. You are the pride of Ritsumeikan, not only for winning the silver medal, but also for your dedication and drive."

Next, President Nakatani praised Ms. Yoshioka, commenting, “I am very moved by how you earned a long-sought medal in your third trip to the Olympics. It is a testament not only to your ability, but also to your spirit and energy to keep moving forward toward your goal without worrying about the results. You are a model athlete.”

The students in attendance asked Ms. Yoshioka many questions about the appeal of sailing, how to overcome obstacles when they arise, and the insights she gained during her time ta Ritsumeikan.