Site icon Youth Ki Awaaz

Tokyo 2020 Olympic Torch Relay: Delayed By A Year But Not Lost Its Charm

Japan has been held spellbound by the charm of the Olympics once again, as it has kicked off the torch relay. This sends across the message of the opening of the Olympics series that will be beginning from the end of July this year. Thus, athletes will now take the fire flame across all countries to arrive in Tokyo for the grand opening ceremony on July 23. It is here that the fuss about the postponement of the big event melts and what will be given utmost importance is strict adherence of social-distancing rules to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Since it’s very start, the Olympics has facilitated the end of conflicts by pledging men praise and honour. Are the Olympic games actually going to happen now? Yes, it is on course as the torch relay proceeds with its traditional ceremony. The Olympics, as planned, are expected to be held from July 23 to August 8 this year. It was indeed a year delayed due to pandemic restrictions. As was hoped, Japan has finally kicked off its torch relay that the athletes will now take across all countries to arrive in Tokyo for the grand opening ceremony on ensuing July 23.

Japan’s women’s national soccer team leading the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Torch Relay. Credit: Getty Images

Without a doubt, the fear of the pandemic pushed the Olympic games for a long delay. That’s why it has become an event this year. The traditional torch readies itself to go without any sports fans applauding, clapping or shouting while standing like viewers on roadsides. But a mask would be a must at a certain point.

Ample talks were held at the beginning of last year to decide the status of the Olympics. There were persistent doubts over the initiation of the big event in Tokyo. But pesky virus factors continued to snatch the big sporting events from us.

However, this time, the summer Olympics will include five fresh sports — climbing, surfing, karate, skateboarding and baseball/softball. The Olympics is going to be a complex event to organise, but its postponement was still a real challenge. Japan is going to hold a big event for the second time after the year 1964. The journey to Olympia was more than a simple trip; it was a pilgrim, as is emphasised.

Featured image credit: Getty Images
Exit mobile version