Japan’s Paris Paralympics team holds inaugural ceremony | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News

Japan’s para athletes have officially inaugurated their team for the Paris Paralympics that will open next month.

The ceremony was held in Tokyo on Tuesday. Crown Prince and Princess Akishino, athletes and officials attended.

The team flag was presented by Japanese Paralympic Committee President Mori Kazuyuki to the head of the delegation, Taguchi Aki. It was then handed over to Ishiyama Daiki and Nishida An, who will carry the flag at the opening ceremony.

Ishiyama is a long jumper and Nishida is a swimmer.

Crown Prince Akishino encouraged the athletes in his address, saying he hopes they will be able to show the results of their hard efforts at one of the most prestigious events for the athletes.

Ishiyama said “each of us will challenge the world and ourselves.” Nishida said she hopes everyone will be able to do their best at the event.

The 12-day Paralympics will open on August 28.

More than 160 athletes are expected to represent Japan. The number will be the highest-ever for a Paralympics outside of the country, exceeding the 163 at the Athens Paralympics in 2004.