Asian Games Open Japan Already Wins 14 Medals
The 18th Asian Games Jakarta-Palembang opened on August 18. The Games' slogan is "Energy of Asia."
(Photo: Fort Kishimoto)
Hosted by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), the Games are held every four years, typically two years before the Olympic Games, earning them the nickname "Asian Olympics."
Indonesia previously hosted the 4th Games in 1962, making this its second time hosting the event.
Over 11,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions are participating. For 16 days until September 2, 40 sports and 465 events will be held across Jakarta and Palembang.
Japan, which will host the Tokyo Olympics in two years, is sending its largest delegation ever: 1,096 members, including 762 athletes and 334 coaches and staff, led by Team Leader Yasuhiro Yamashita.
■ Opening Ceremony
The ceremony commenced at 7:00 PM local time at the GBK Main Stadium in Jakarta.
Just before the opening, a video projection on the stadium's large screen showed Indonesian President Joko Widodo riding a motorcycle to the venue. When he actually appeared, the audience erupted in loud cheers.
The massive stage, approximately 130 meters long and 30 meters high, was designed to resemble a mountain. It featured recreations of waterfalls and tropical rainforests, expressing the country's rich natural environment. Additionally, around 1,500 female performers showcased traditional arts, highlighting the harmony between multiculturalism and nature.
Japan entered 12th in the athletes' parade. Led by flag bearer Yuriko Ueno (softball), the 112 athletes and 163-member delegation marched with smiles, receiving loud applause and cheers from the stands.
Eric Thohir, President of the Organizing Committee, stated, "Asia embraces diversity and respects harmony and peace. Let us recognize each other's differences together at this Games." President Joko Widodo then declared the Games open.
The Olympic flame, relayed by past medalists, was finally lit at the cauldron by Susi Susanti, the gold medalist in badminton at the Barcelona Olympics. This moment, accompanied by spectacular fireworks, marked the grand climax.
■ Japanese Team
As of the second day of the opening on the 19th, Japan has secured three gold medals: swimmer Daiya Seto (200m butterfly), swimmer Satomi Suzuki (100m breaststroke), and the women's 4x100m freestyle relay team. They also earned six silver medals in swimming and wrestling, and five bronze medals in fencing, wrestling, and other events, totaling 14 medals for a strong start.
Japan has many standout athletes in swimming, track and field, judo, badminton, and other events, raising expectations for a continued medal rush.
Coverage of the Games will include over 60 hours of live broadcasts during prime time on the TBS network, along with highlight programs and live coverage on NHK's General TV and BS1 channels.
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