THE rescheduled dates for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games have been confirmed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The Games will now start on July 23, 2021 and run until August 8, 2021, the IOC announced following an executive board meeting today.
Last week, the IOC confirmed the postponement of the Games due to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis, which has ground sport to a halt around the world.
The Paralympic Games will go from August 24-September 6.
The decision on the new dates was made upon agreement between the IOC, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Government of Japan.
A” statement said: These new dates give the health authorities and all involved in the organisation of the Games the maximum time to deal with the constantly changing landscape and the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Additionally, they will provide sufficient time to finish the qualification process. The same heat mitigation measures as planned for 2020 will be implemented.”
The confirmation of a date provides clarity for the Olympic Federation of Ireland who can begin work on the addressing the operational adjustments that need to take place following this reschedule.
Finn Valley AC race walker is already assured of his place at the Games with others like Mark English, Chloe Magee, Sam Magee and Annmarie McGlynn also aiming to qualify.
Speaking today, Chef de Mission for Team Ireland in Tokyo, Tricia Heberle welcomed the clarification of a date, saying: “Now the athletes have a start date for the Games, they can work with their Performance Directors and coaches to start mapping out preparations. Importantly for athletes and sport, the next information we need clarity on are any changes to qualification and the rescheduling of qualification events.
“This will take some time, so in the short term the focus remains the same, stay healthy and safe over the coming months.
“The priority now is for everyone to following the government guidelines to protect Ireland and the rest of the world against further spread of this virus. A July 2021 start means that we have plenty of time to reactivate preparatory plans and for athletes currently in modified training or on a break of sorts, this period of time can still allow some positive impact on performance.
“If we are smart, this enforced break can make Team Ireland even better.”
Tags: