Arab News Japan

TOKYO:  Large crowds witnessed the re-opening of the Olympic rowing and canoe track in Tokyo’s Koto district.

Visitors could view a replica of the Olympic torch, the Olympic and Paralympic mascots and the hangars where the two hundred competition canoes are stored.

Almost a year after the Olympics and Paralympics were held without an audience, visitors, assisted by instructors, could experience rowing a boat and riding a tricycle intended for para-athletes.

“Fukagawa Tomioka Hachiman Aoi Daiko,” a folk group of Taiko (traditional drums), set the tempo for the re-opening ceremony, athletes and para-athletes talked about their relationship with rowing.

Chiaki Tomita, a double scull lightweight rower who participated in the 2016 and 2020 summer Olympics, announced the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris as her next goal.

Several dozen J-Pop idol groups, including AKB48 and Kamenjoshi, took turns on the five different stages to the delight of the local crowds. 

Yuriko Koike, the governor of Tokyo, welcomed the re-opening. “The Tokyo Metropolitan Government will develop the legacy of the Games and create a “Sports Field Tokyo” where everyone can enjoy sports in their daily lives,” she said. The governor added in a video message, “We plan to host many more competitions in the future. As an entertainment space for enjoying music and other activities, we will deliver new excitement and diverse values from this venue”.

The Spring Festival remains open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. from April 29 to 30, and the rowing track remains open to the public during Golden Week.