Tokyo Olympic torch relay kicks off without fans
Today in Fukushima (northeastern Japan), the torch relay for the Tokyo Olympics postponed until next summer due to the Corona virus, in the absence of the masses, as the organizers try to calm the fears of hesitant residents.
The rose gold metallic torch was lit in a cherry blossom crest in the morning at a very symbolic sports complex "Jay-Village" that served as a base for relief operations after the nuclear disaster, earthquake and fatal tsunami in northeastern Japan on March 11, 2011 that killed 18,500 people were lost.
Speaking at the launching ceremony of the torch relay, Tokyo 2020 President Seiko Hashimoto said that she hopes the Olympic torch will be a "ray of light at the end of darkness."
"This little flame never lost hope and waited for this day like a cherry blossom is about to bloom," she added.
The torch relay, like the Olympic Games itself, will be completely different from the previous editions, where spectators must wear protective masks and line the roadsides while avoiding crowds, but shouting and encouragement will be prohibited, as long as it is limited to applause and the use of distributed goods.
The public was prevented from attending the torch lighting ceremony and the first part of its path.
However, the public will then be able to follow the torch relay, which will pass through Japan's 47 prefectures, before reaching the Tokyo National Stadium on the opening ceremony of the Games on July 23.
The torch has been in Japan since last year, as organizers were making final preparations for the launch of its run before the Games were postponed for a year due to the Corona virus.
A year later, the health situation remains alarming despite the first vaccinations and Olympic officials are facing the doubts and worries of the Japanese people.
Foreign fans have been excluded from the Tokyo Olympics, and stadium restrictions will likely be imposed on the number of spectators living in Japan.
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