Two torches that will be used in the postponed Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic torch relay next summer ahead of the Olympic Games are currently on display at the Tokyo metropolitan government building in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo.
Each 71-centimeter-long torch, which weighs 1.2 kilograms and resembles a cherry blossom when viewed from above, was made from recycled aluminum originally used to construct temporary housing units after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
On Monday, the first day of the exhibition, Satoko Takeuji, a 78-year-old former Olympian who won the bronze medal in swimming at the 1960 Rome Olympics and participated in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, visited the exhibition.
Takeuji currently works as a swim instructor for children suffering from asthma at classes held in Edogawa Ward, Tokyo. She will be one of the torchbearers in next summer's relay.
"The pandemic makes me feel gloomy, but looking at this torch makes me feel energized," said Takeuji. "I hope we can all enjoy the Games together."
The exhibition will run through Tuesday.
Read more from The Japan News at https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/
