- Advertisement -
Local spectators will be able to participate in the Olympic Games (July 23-August 8), announced the organizers of Tokyo 2021. For African athletes who will participate in these Olympics, can count on the support of an audience, even very limited because of Covid- 19, is a relief.
The 68,000 seats at Tokyo Olympic Stadium are far from being filled next summer game (July 23 – August 8). And it will be the same in other competition venues. The local authorities have actually decided to because of the Covid-19 pandemic there will be no more than 10,000 viewers on a site and that the number must not exceed 50% of the enclosure.
For many African athletes, however, this decision is a relief. “I think it’s a good thing for us athletes,” said Nigerian sprint superstar Blessing Okagbare. We love the fans and share our performances with them. Having spectators when you see everything we have been through with the pandemic is good for us and for the games ”.
“It’s a very good decision,” said Franck Elemba, Congo-Brazzaville shot putter. It would not have been easy to be in the camera ”. The Congolese, who have felt the madness of Rio Games 2016, even a philosopher shows himself: “Even with 10,000 people in the arena, it can provide good motivation. “
Beninese Noélie Yarigo, a specialist in the 800 meters, also relativizes. “Since last year, we have been used to running without an audience, even if the adrenaline rises when there are spectators. But we will deal with the conditions that exist “, assures those who intend to live their second Olympics.
“Playing with an audience makes a big difference”
Egyptian handball player Mohamed Sanad also tasted the Olympic Games with the public in 2016. The 30-year-old winger, on the other hand, experienced a world championship in Egypt behind closed doors. He did not want to relive such a scenario in Japan. “Playing with an audience makes a big difference and it is much better for us as players than playing behind closed doors,” he confirms. Unfortunately, only people living in Japan can participate in the Olympics. But I’m still sure the atmosphere will be great and I can not wait to be part of the games. “
Algerian karateka Lamya Matoub, moved by her latest qualification, regrets that foreign athletes can not be more surrounded in Tokyo. “I am very divided, she is slipping. First, I’m happy not to go into a completely empty gym, which allows me to realize the incredible event that the Olympics are. Still, I am so sad that my family and loved ones can not come with me to the biggest competition of my life.
“We must always remember the risks”
Cape Verdean Marcia Lopes, qualified in rhythmic gymnastics, is also preparing to experience her first Olympic Games. And she could not imagine living them without fans. “In my sport, an achievement is not just for judges. It is also for the spectators. We always try to convey some of our routines, we want them to “know” our routines. She adds, “It’s a great decision to be released from the public.” But we must always remember the risks. I expect all fans to follow all protective measures so that we can have the best possible Olympics in these strange and difficult times. ”
Sudan Esraa Khogali, who will line up in a single skull (rowing), says nothing else. “That’s a good idea [de limiter le nombre de spectateurs, Ndlr] because you have to live with the question of coronavirus in order not to deprive the public of Olympic moments and pleasures that you can experience when participating in the games, she concludes.
Interview with Franck Elemba by Éric Mamruth and Noélie Yarigo by Baptiste Flipo,
.
