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PyeongChang Paralympics Japan Team Formation Ceremony and Farewell Party Held
The Japan Paralympic Committee (JPC) held a team formation ceremony and send-off party for the Japanese delegation to the PyeongChang Winter Paralympics (March 9-18) at Toranomon Hills in Minato Ward, Tokyo, on February 26.
Team Captain: Kuniko Dai-Nichi Co., Ltd. (Dentsu Inc. Public Relations), Japan's first Winter Paralympic gold medalist. Team Captain: Satoru Sudo (Ice Hockey). Flag Bearer: Momoka Muraoka (Alpine Skiing).
■ Team Formation Ceremony
The ceremony commenced with the presence of Prince and Princess Akishino. JPC President Mitsunori Torihara announced that a total of 86 people would be dispatched to the Games, comprising 38 athletes and 48 staff members. "We aim to surpass the medal count of past Games and contribute to energizing the Paralympic movement. We ask for your passionate support." Japanese athletes will compete in five sports: alpine skiing, cross-country skiing/biathlon, snowboarding, and ice hockey.
On stage, the national flag was handed from Chairman Toriwara to Dai-Nichi Co., Ltd. Team Leader Ohinata and then to flag bearer Muraoka.
His Imperial Highness Prince Akishino addressed the team: "Please take care of your health and fully demonstrate the results of your daily training. Also, please familiarize yourselves with the culture of the host country, interact with athletes from other nations, and strive for international goodwill."
Dai-Nichi Co., Ltd. Team Leader stated, "If everyone gives their all, I believe our goals will surely be achieved. This is an important Games that will boost winter sports and lead to the Tokyo 2020 Games. We will compete cleanly and fairly." Team Captain Sudo expressed his determination, saying, "I feel the growing expectations around us. I want to do my utmost so that many people will take an interest in Paralympic sports."
■ Send-off Ceremony
The athletes entered with smiles, led by Meiji Gakuin University's cheer squad.
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe sent a message: "I still clearly remember when athlete Dai-Nichi Co., Ltd. won Japan's first gold medal at the Nagano Paralympics 20 years ago. The sight of athletes giving their all inspires and gives courage to many people. I am convinced that their achievements will inspire future Paralympic athletes. Please show us your best performance."
On stage, the cheer squad and cheerleaders performed encouraging routines. Support messages from Japanese athletes who excelled at the PyeongChang Olympics were shown, along with video messages from friends and acquaintances connected to the athletes. The atmosphere remained warm throughout, and the athletes appeared relaxed as they enjoyed the gathering.
Dai-Nichi Co., Ltd. Team Leader expressed his gratitude, stating, "Hearing from so many people, I recognize that the Paralympics have the power to change society. After the success of Japan's athletes at the Olympics, it's our turn. We will fight with the strength of your support and return home with smiles. We're off!"
■ Press Conference
Attending the press conference were Dai-Nichi Co., Ltd. Team Leader Ohinata, Deputy Team Leader Kunio Nakamori (JPC Secretary General), Team Captain Sudo, and Flag Bearer Muraoka.
Deputy Team Leader Nakamori stated his aspirations: "This delegation is a well-balanced team mixing newcomers and veterans. We aim to get on a roll by winning our first medals in Alpine Skiing Downhill and Biathlon the day after the Opening Ceremony, and achieve results surpassing the previous Games."
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