Japan to send over 400 athletes to Paris Olympics

Japan has officially inaugurated its team of athletes for the upcoming Paris Olympics.

A ceremony was held in Tokyo on Friday, July 5 attended by Crown Prince and Princess Akishino, athletes and officials. 

The team flag was presented by Japanese Olympic Committee Vice President Mitsuya Yuko to the head of the delegation, Ogata Mitsugi. It was then handed over to fencer Emura Misaki, who will bear the flag at the opening ceremony of the Games on July 26.

Crown Prince Akishino told the team that he hopes each member will deepen exchanges through sports with those from other parts of the world and promote international goodwill.

Emura said that, under the team’s concept of “having the courage to take a step forward,” all the athletes would do their best to take on new challenges.

Nakarai Shigeyuki, known as B-Boy Shigekix, is also a flag bearer. He will compete at the Games in the newly introduced dance sport breaking. He said the athletes will take inspiration from fans’ cheers to take a step forward and do their best with a sense of gratitude.

More than 400 athletes are expected to represent Japan. That will be the highest-ever figure for an Olympics outside the country, exceeding the number for the 2008 Beijing Games.