The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
New Tokyo Games date welcomed
The rearranged Tokyo Olympic Games will be held from July 23 to August 8 2021, the International Olympic Committee has announced.
The Paralympics will now take place between August 24 and September 5 next year and British Paralympic Association chief executive Mike
Sharrock welcomed the clarity that the decision will bring to athletes.
Sharrock said: “We hope this will give athletes the certainty they need to refocus on achieving their goals next year.
“We recognise many challenges still lie ahead in the battle with Covid-19 and athletes will not be able to return to their training schedules for some time yet.
“The clear priority now is stemming this public health crisis and ensuring people follow the Government advice to stay safe and well.
“Our planning for the games will continue throughout this time to ensure ParalympicsGB can inspire the nation once again.
“We firmly believe Tokyo 2020 has the potential to be the biggest and best Paralympics in history, unifying the world and demonstrating just what is possible when we all work together towards a common goal.”
British Olympic Association chief executive Andy Anson echoed Sharrock’s sentiments, saying: “This gives everyone a great opportunity to reset their planning and have clarity on the immediate period going forward.”