Japan (Tokyo) The Tokyo Olympics are in full swing with the 2nd day of action featuring contests in Badminton, Archery, Judo and others.
The Games officially began on Friday night with a ceremony that was both subdued and spectacular. Anti-coronavirus measures meant no spectators were in the stands.
Traditional and contemporary arts found expression through kabuki performance, modern dance and a high-tech display, while athletes wore face masks and mostly kept their social distance.
In the parade, most countries and territories were led by both male and female flagbearers as a nod to gender equality.
Emperor Naruhito officially declared the opening, reprising the role his grandfather played at the 1964 Games more than half a century ago.
A high point of the night was the lighting of the Olympic cauldron by Japanese tennis star Osaka Naomi.
On the schedule for Day 2, Saturday, the homegrown sport of Judo is drawing attention to the host team. Medal hopeful Takato Naohisa in the men’s 60-kilogram class is due to take the mat. Takato took bronze for Japan at Rio.
And in the women’s 48-kilogram class, Tonaki Funa will compete.
In Archery, the mixed team event has been underway and medals will be known as early as this evening.
Various events are being played in Badminton, including women’s doubles. The world number-1 ranked pair, Fukushima Yuki and Hirota Sayaka are due to compete with their British opponents.
Also on the schedule on Saturday are handball, fencing, hockey and other sports.
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