Regarding the Tokyo Olympics holy fire relay scheduled in Chiba Prefecture in July, Governor Kumagai canceled the implementation in all sections because there was a risk of spreading the infection, and an unattended ignition ceremony was held at three venues including Chiba City. Officially announced that it will be done.
The Tokyo Olympic torch relay in Chiba Prefecture was planned to be held on a route that runs through 21 cities and towns for three days from July 1st to 3rd.
However, Governor Kumagai said at a press conference on the 27th, "While the situation of asking for unnecessary and unurgent refraining from going out continues throughout the prefecture, there is a danger that runners will generate a flow of people and spread the infection" in all sections. Officially announced that the relay will be cancelled.
And as an alternative measure, the torchbearer who was scheduled to run will participate in the ignition ceremony without spectators at the three ceremony venues in Sammu City, Chiba City, and Matsudo City.
Governor Kumagai said, "It was a disappointing result for runners, municipalities, and citizens of the prefecture who were looking forward to this opportunity, but the prevention of infection spread is the highest priority. I would like to implement an alternative plan that is as meaningful as possible by making an early decision. "
One of the runners "There is no way to cancel"
Katsumi Kunezaki (58) from Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture, who has been selected as a torchbearer, suffers from ALS = amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, in which the muscles of the whole body gradually become immobile. I have been looking forward to running with the supporters in a wheelchair.
Regarding the announcement of the cancellation of the torch relay in Chiba prefecture, Mr. Kunezaki said, "While there are people who are having a hard time with the new coronavirus, I think that it is unavoidable at present. I'm happy as much as I can, so I'd like to take it home and show it to my supporters and locals. "