Japan has officially inaugurated its team of athletes for the upcoming Paris Olympics.
The ceremony was held in Tokyo on Friday. Crown Prince and Princess Akishino, athletes and officials attended.
The team flag was presented from Japanese Olympic Committee Vice President Mitsuya Yuko to the head of the delegation, Ogata Mitsugi. It was then handed over to fencer Emura Misaki, who will bear the flag at the opening ceremony of the Games on July 26.
Crown Prince Akishino told the team that he hopes each member will deepen exchanges through sports with those from other parts of the world and promote international goodwill.
Emura said that under the team’s concept of “having the courage to take a step forward,” all the athletes will do their best to take on new challenges.
Nakarai Shigeyuki, known as Shigekix, is also a flag bearer. He will compete at the Games in the newly introduced dance sport breaking. He said the athletes will take inspiration from fans’ cheers to take a step forward and do their best with a sense of gratitude.
More than 400 athletes are expected to represent Japan. That will be the highest-ever figure for an Olympics outside the country, exceeding the number for the 2008 Beijing Games.