Tokyo 2020 ask fans to stay away from marathons

Tokyo 2020 has asked fans to stay away from the course when the Olympic marathons and race walking are held in Sapporo.

Organizers claimed that the move was necessary in order to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infections.

Sapporo is the capital of Japan's northernmost island Hokkaido, which remains under state of emergency measures because of coronavirus.

Games officials today met with both Hokkaido prefecture and Sapporo city authorities, as well as the police, to go through the arrangements for the marathons and race walking.

"At the meeting, it was agreed that in view of the current COVID-19 situation, it will be necessary to reduce the risk of infection by restricting the movement of members of the public," a statement said.

"It has therefore been decided to ask the public to refrain from spectating along the course.

"We will continue to work closely with the Hokkaido prefectural authorities, the Sapporo City Government and all other relevant organizations to ensure a safe and secure Tokyo 2020 Games for all participants and for the citizens of Sapporo and Hokkaido."

Kyodo News had previously reported that Hokkaido Governor Naomichi Suzuki had asked for a restrictions on fans at the events.

It is hoped that the prefecture's state of emergency measures will be lifted on July 11.

Sapporo, which hosted the Winter Olympics in 1972, lies 800 kilometers north of Tokyo but was named as the venue for the Olympic marathons and race walking in October 2019.

The decision, taken before COVID-19 caused the delay of Tokyo 2020 by a year, was made due to fears about high temperatures in the capital.

It was a move which resulted in the International Olympic Committee clashing with Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, who opposed the decision, and some athletes. 

Odori Park will be the start and end point for both marathons.

The route features a large loop which is about the length of a half-marathon, followed by a second smaller loop which will be completed twice.

The fact that fans have been asked not to attend the marathons, which take place in the open air and are traditionally free for the public, is another blow for spectators as the Olympic Opening Ceremony approaches on July 23.

Tokyo 2020 yesterday delayed the results of a ticket lottery until Saturday (July 10) as organizers continue to assess the number of spectators that will be permitted in each venue.

International fans have already been banned.

posted Tuesday July 6th
by Dan Palmer