With resolve and emotion, Japanese delegation unite at Tokyo 2020 kick-off ceremony
The wait is over, says Japanese Olympic Committee President YAMASHITA Yasuhiro. The curtain will be raised on the Games in 17 days.
Japan's team for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games came together on Tuesday evening (6 July) in a virtual kick-off event where they rallied 17 days ahead of the Opening Ceremony.
Across the street from the Olympic Stadium where the 23 July-8 August Games will open after being postponed by a year, the host country delegation vowed to make Tokyo's Olympics a success.
"The Olympic Games, returning to Tokyo after almost 50 years, are finally about to open," Japanese Olympic Committee President YAMASHITA Yasuhiro said during his opening address at the Japan Olympic Museum.
"In a turbulent year, the athletes overcame all kinds of challenges and difficulties including not being able to train or compete. But through thick and thin, they gave it their best at all times.
Two-time Olympian and the Japan men's 100-metre record-holder YAMAGATA Ryota has been named team captain with ISHIKAWA Kasumi, two-time medallist in women's table tennis named vice-captain.
