Asian Games Hosting the Japanese National Team's Formation Ceremony A crucial preliminary battle for 2020
The Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) held the formation ceremony, press conference, and send-off ceremony for the Japanese delegation participating in the 18th Asian Games (August 18 to September 2) in Indonesia at the Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa in Minato Ward, Tokyo, on August 13.
■ Team Formation Ceremony
Approximately 650 athletes and related personnel attended.
JOC President Tsunekazu Takeda noted that this year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Indonesia. He expressed hope that the Games would help both nations move toward an even brighter future. He announced the dispatch of the largest delegation in history: 1,096 members, including 762 athletes and 334 coaches and staff, led by Team Leader Yasuhiro Yamashita.
He also stated, "This Games serve as a prelude to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and are crucial for fostering cooperation among sports. I sincerely look forward to the athletes' performances. Go out there and give it your all!"
The delegation flag was handed over from Chairman Takeda to Team Leader Yamashita, then to flag bearer Yukiko Ueno (women's softball), witnessed by team captain Ryota Yamagata (track and field).
His Imperial Highness Prince Akishino addressed the athletes competing in 465 events across 40 sports: "I hope you will also strive for international goodwill with athletes from across Asia. Please keep in mind the many people affected by the earthquake that struck Lombok Island in Indonesia. Take care of your health and fully demonstrate the results of your daily training."
Indonesian Ambassador to Japan Arifin Tasrif stated: "At the 1962 Games, the first held in our country, Japan sent 209 athletes and won 74 gold medals to claim the overall championship. We are grateful to host the Games again 56 years later. This edition will feature the largest-ever participation of 42 countries and regions, with 16,000 athletes. I hope you will also experience the diverse cuisines and cultures of each region. Let us all demonstrate the power of the Asian people together."
Team Leader Yamashita remarked, "It is a remarkable coincidence that the Tokyo Olympics followed the 1962 Games in Indonesia by two years, and now, two years later, Tokyo will host the Olympics again. We will strive to foster friendship with other nations and compete with all our might for the 2020 Games, acting in a manner befitting Japan's representatives." Captain Yamagata declared his resolve: "Under the JOC's slogan 'No improvement in athletic ability without human strength,' we will strive for friendship and goodwill, passing the baton to 2020 and beyond."
■ Press Conference
In addition to Team Leader Yamashita, Captain Yamagata, and Flag Bearer Ueno, Deputy Team Leader Kozo Tajima and Head Coach Retsu Fukui also attended, each sharing their thoughts, aspirations, and determination for the Games.
Regarding the target number of medals, they stated that specific figures would not be set, prioritizing strategy development and adjustments for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
■ Departure Ceremony
Approximately 50 athletes from various sports participated, each wearing their respective uniforms.
Some less familiar sports like "Paragliding," "Kabbaddi," "Bridge," and "Sepak Takraw" drew attention with their unique uniforms.
The athletes presented their goals for the Games using flip charts. Many expressed confidence in winning medals, hinting at a strong showing for Team Japan.
Finally, Captain Yamagata addressed the gathering: "Hearing everyone's goals gives me great strength. I hope our performance brings hope to the people of my hometown, Hiroshima, who suffered from the torrential rain disaster."
The team's spirit soared as all athletes shouted in unison, "Team Nippon!"
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