The Tokyo Olympics has come to a close after being postponed due to the Covid pandemic sweeping across the world.
The Games took place without spectators and athletes were restricted from venturing outside the Olympic village.
Despite the best efforts of local authorities, around 30 protesters jostled with police at the National Stadium before the closing ceremony.
The protest was a last-ditch effort by citizens who were unhappy with their government’s policies.
Despite warnings and scorching heat, other locals watched the events from afar.
Fans gathered in the heat to enjoy their favorite outdoor events such as triathlon and BMX, even if it meant that they had to watch from a bridge or overpass, and despite temperatures reaching a mind-boggling 35C (the hottest ever recorded at an Olympics), the heat didn’t deter anyone!
The Games’ official sign-off, featuring ska bands, football freestylers, break-dancers and BMX riders was the perfect finale to an exciting two weeks. The final moments culminated in a heart gesture being made by athletes thanking their Japanese hosts as they left Tokyo’s National Stadium.
It was a small parade of flag bearers, missing 62 competing nations, that starting proceedings in Tokyo before an air display team painted the French tricolore across Parisian skies in anticipation of its hosting the 2024 Olympic Games.
Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto, who competed at seven Olympic Games as a speed skater and then a track cyclist, told the athletes:
“There are no words to describe what you have achieved”.
“You have accepted what seemed unimaginable, understood what had to be done, and through hard work and perseverance overcome unbelievable challenges, this has made you true Olympians” She added.
The athletes were monitored closely for signs of infection and illness. They wore masks when not eating, training or competing, and after a grueling two weeks of competing, the athletes were given 48 hours to pack up and head home.
