Article from SLAM Skateboarding Magazine
Veteran International Olympic Committee member, Dick Pound, has made the announcement that the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games are going to be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“On the basis of the information the IOC has, postponement has been decided,” Pound said to an American news outlet. “The parameters going forward have not been determined, but the Games are not going to start on July 24, that much I know.”
Dick Pound, being the IOC’s longest-serving member, explained that the Tokyo Olympics will likely be moved to 2021 and the details will be worked out within the next four weeks.
A statement from the AOC to the Australian skateboarders in line to compete reads:
“Athletes should prepare for a Tokyo Olympic Games in the northern summer of 2021. We expect the IOC to confirm this option by mid-late April. Obviously, this message and outcome is not what we wanted and are extremely disappointed, however, it does provide some clarity for yourself the athlete, your coaches, support staff and your family.
“What this means is that you and everyone around you can focus on their own health and that of the wider population, rather than feeling pressured to prepare for the biggest competition in a compromised environment. As you are aware, all indoor facilities and gyms throughout Australia have been closed, along with a number of state borders; with more likely to close over the coming days. We strongly encourage you to stay within your local community and refrain from attending any skateparks.”
The spread of the coronavirus has also interrupted Olympic qualification procedures, so for now, it seems every event is on ice.
Stay safe out there and we’ll keep you updated on the developments.
Image above: Eetu Toropainen, loopy ollie. Photo by Keke Leppala.