Another international rugby tournament kicks off Top-ranked countries participate
Amidst the excitement surrounding Japan's advancement to the quarterfinals in the Rugby World Cup, the Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge 2019 (organized by the Japan Sports Association for Persons with Disabilities and the Japan Wheelchair Rugby Federation, sponsored by Mitsubishi Corporation, Japan Airlines, Mitsui Fudosan, Nikko Asset Management, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Goldwin, and Shimizu Corporation) kicked off on October 16 at Tokyo Gymnasium in Shibuya Ward (running until the 20th).
The tournament features the world's top eight ranked nations (Australia, Japan, USA, Great Britain, Canada, France, New Zealand, Brazil) competing in five days of intense action.
The decision to hold this tournament concurrently with the Rugby World Cup stems from the Rugby Association and the World Cup Organizing Committee aligning their efforts. They share the goal of jointly boosting the popularity of the sport and realizing an "inclusive society."
Related article:Two Rugby World Events to Be Held Simultaneously in Japan in 2019[2017.01.27]
The opening match on the first day featured Japan versus Brazil. The venue welcomed elementary, junior high, and high school students from Tokyo, creating a lively opening atmosphere. Kyogen performer Mansai Nomura performed a solo rendition of the Japanese national anthem to mark the opening.
The match saw Japan win 61-42, thanks to the strong performances of star players Daisuke Ikesaki and Toru Ike, along with 17-year-old Katsuya Hashimoto. Many spectators appeared to be watching wheelchair rugby for the first time, visibly surprised by the intense collisions and speed of the game. The venue was filled with excitement from the player introductions before kickoff, through the cheers and shouts of the elementary, junior high, and high school students.
During the opening match's halftime, Nomura reappeared. Using kyogen techniques and based on his production "Kyogen of Mistakes" (adapted from Shakespeare's "The Comedy of Errors"), he performed "Yayakoshiyya" alongside children from both Japan and Brazil, receiving thunderous applause.
Mr. Nomura, who served as Chief Executive Creative Director for the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games opening and closing ceremonies, is highly anticipated for his directing skills.
Japan also won against France on the 17th, securing a spot in the semifinals (19th) with consecutive victories.
For this tournament, some seats for the semifinals and beyond were sold as arena seats to allow spectators to better enjoy the intensity of the competition. These seats are already sold out. (2nd and 3rd floor seats are free admission)
Official Tournament Website:
https://wwrc2019.jp/
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