IOC braces for the heat during Tokyo Olympics

Organisers will take no risks with safety of athletes

Tokyo Olympic organisers insisted yesterday they would take no chances with the safety of athletes competing in the fierce summer heat at the 2020 Games.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) was given a timely reminder of Japan’s vulnerability to natural disasters this week as heavy rains battered the west of the country, leaving more than 200 people dead.

“I was here as the floods impacted,” IOC vice-president John Coates told reporters on the final day of a threeday visit.

“We expressed our sorrow and condolences to those affected. I certainly hope there are no such natural disasters during Games — but I am mindful we have to prepare for extreme heat here.”

Coates, who is also chairman of the IOC’s Coordination Committee for the 2020 Tokyo Games, added: “Japan is not the first country to host a Games in extreme heat and it is a natural consequence of it being July and August, I’m afraid.”

Local organisers did little to dampen fears earlier this year when they announced

Japan is not the first country to host a Games in extreme heat and it is a natural consequence of it being July and August.” John Coates » IOC vice-president

that marathon runners at the 2020 Olympics would face a brutal uphill finish in outlining the race route.

Organisers will take measures to alleviate the risk of heatstroke for competitors and spectators, including coating pavements with a substance to reduce the surface temperature in Tokyo, where the mercury regularly tops 35C (95F).

“We emphasised that when we went to see the surfing venue,” said Coates, noting that fans and water sprays would also be set up for spectators moving to venues or waiting in security lines. “There is the potential for delays while surfers wait for better waves. There might also be delays at the rowing because of winds.”