
Arab News Japan
TOKYO: The government of Tokyo is announcing a media initiative to build enthusiasm for the Paralympic Games a year before they are set to begin.
Included in the initiative are video messages from athletes discussing their current activities and feelings about the Games, as well as panels drawn by manga artists that showcase the various Paralympic sports.
Yoshu Nobusawa, a goalball player, says in his video message that he was at a loss when he first found out about the postponement of the Games, but that to him it does not mean cancellation and that it in fact allows the team more time to prepare. Goalball is a sport played on a court by visually impaired athletes.
Also included are video messages from members of the “Council for the success of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games and barrier-free promotion.” The content is available online in Japanese.
According to a statement from the Tokyo metropolitan government, the aim of the campaign is to “create momentum and build excitement toward the Paralympic Games, as well as to attract more fans and promote para sports.”
The Paralympic Games were originally scheduled to begin on Monday, August 24, but were rescheduled to August 25 of next year due to the pandemic.