The Tokyo Paralympics will take place in Tokyo from August 24 to September 5, with a team of 227 participants, including 42 returning Paralympians and 43 Paralympic winners.
ParalympicsGB’s Chef de Mission, Penny Briscoe, says the atmosphere in their camp is “amazing” as the participants make last preparations for the postponed Tokyo Paralympics.
After a difficult build-up badly impacted by the coronavirus epidemic, a British team of 227 athletes representing 19 of the 22 Paralympic disciplines is preparing to compete in Japan.
According to Briscoe, the athletes she has met are eager to get started.
“I believe it is fair to say that the camp is in a fantastic mood. It’s a mix of elation, anticipation, and excitement “she said.
“It’s just the athletes pinching themselves.” ‘I didn’t believe it until I touched down in Tokyo,’ said one of the shooters who had just arrived.
“I believe we’re in a good position, and as a squad, we’re quite excited for the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo.”
“We know there will already be a glow around the British team in Tokyo,” she said, “and that the Paralympic delegation will create even more amazing moments to engage us as they prepare to realise their own goals at the Games.”
“We also recognise that many of our athletes’ journeys to the starting line have not been simple.
“They’ve had extended periods of protection and lack of competitiveness due to the pandemic while managing their own personal and sporting issues.
“Paralympians are well aware of the obstacles that we’ve all faced over the last 18 months, but it has had a profound influence on them. But we know they’re here and ready to make us all proud right now.”
Unlike the Olympic team, British Paralympians compete knowing that funding for the Paris 2024 cycle has been assured, thanks to the government’s announcement of a £232 million package just over a week ago.
Munday said funding uncertainties could be an “unnecessary distraction” for athletes and support staff who rely on it, but that the athletes were focused on the “now and now” of Tokyo in any event.
Briscoe further stated that the British delegation’s COVID-19 processes were strong, with only one positive instance confirmed thus far.
Two athletes were identified as close contacts after a staff member working with the para-swimming squad tested positive. The athletes in question were allowed to continue training while adhering to all of the necessary isolation protocols.
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