Japan has officially inaugurated its team of athletes for the Tokyo Paralympics, scheduled to open on August 24.
A ceremony was held in Tokyo on Tuesday.
A record 255 athletes will represent Japan at the Tokyo Games. But due to coronavirus restrictions, the number of attendees at the ceremony was limited, with most participating remotely.
Those present included wheelchair tennis player Kunieda Shingo, captain of Team Japan, and goalball player Urata Rie, who serves as vice-captain.
During the ceremony, athletes and coaches in each of the various sports were introduced.
Head of the Japanese delegation Kawai Junichi then handed over the national flag, which also serves as the team flag, to those who will act as bearers — table tennis player Iwabuchi Koyo and triathlete Tani Mami.
Speaking for the team, Kunieda said the Tokyo Olympics demonstrated the power of sport to inspire strong performances from Japanese athletes.
Kunieda pledged to exert all his strength with courage and determination. He expressed hope that many Japanese children, regardless of whether they have disabilities or not, will see para sports and feel the endless potential of humankind.
During the 13-day Paralympics, around 4,400 athletes from almost 160 countries and territories are scheduled to take part in 539 events in 22 sports.
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