Veteran of 1964 Tokyo Games set to begin torch relay today

Isamu Miyagi, who ran the first leg of the torch relay ahead of the Tokyo Games in 1964, is set to run again in this year’s torch relay, which kicks off in Fukushima Prefecture today.

“I’m grateful that I’ve been given the chance a second time.i want to convey the importance of peace,” said Miyagi, 78, of Urasoe, Okinawa Prefecture.

When the plane carrying the torch arrived in U.s.-controlled Okinawa on Sept. 7, 1964, thunderous applause erupted from the crowd gathered at Naha Airport, followed by shouts of “Banzai!”although the Japanese flag was usually only displayed on national holidays in that period, the roadside was filled with people holding small Hinomaru national flags on the day.

Miyagi, then a 22-year-old student at the University of the Ryukyus, felt as if Okinawa had been returned to Japan.

He said his whole body trembled with nervousness as he waded through overflowing crowds while trying not to drop the torch.

Although the first leg lasted only 10 minutes, carrying out the great responsibility filled him with accomplishment and relief.

Miyagi said he was looking forward to the 2020 Tokyo Games but did not apply to take part in the torch relay. But Games officials approached Miyagi in 2019 to see if he would consider participating and he accepted, eager to experience the excitement again.

This year’s Games are intended to commemorate reconstruction from the Great East Japan Earthquake and the world’s fight against the pandemic.

“After all of the hardships, the future will be bright,”miyagi said.