Gangwon 2024: Team Japan's road to Milano Cortina 2026 begins here
Japanese chef de mission Harada Masahiko rallies his troops at send-off function in Tokyo for 19 January-1 February Youth Winter Olympic Games.
Japanese ski jumping legend and Nagano 1998 gold medallist Harada Masahiko urged his country’s Winter Youth Olympians to use Gangwon 2024 as a springboard for Milano Cortina 2026 on Tuesday (16 January).
“Congratulations to those who have been selected,” chef de mission Harada said at Japan’s team inauguration ceremony for the Games opening on Friday in the Republic of Korea.
“As a Team Japan athlete representing our country, be proud and give the Games everything you have.
“I hope each and every one of you will do your best and gain the invaluable experience necessary to compete at the Winter Games in Milano Cortina.”
Japan is sending 69 athletes plus a coaching staff of 49 to Gangwon, the fourth Winter Youth Olympic Games. Curler Fujii Kaito and ski jumper Sato Yuzuki have been named flagbearers.
The first traveling party departs on Wednesday.
Fujii said he is anxious to get his campaign going at the site where PyeongChang 2018 was held.
“A ceremony like this ahead of the Youth Olympic Games makes it seem more real. I’m excited,” said Fujii, who will celebrate his 15th birthday in Gangwon on Monday.
“Honestly, I was surprised to be named flagbearer. But I hope I can set a tone for the entire team.
“The venue will be the one used for the PyeongChang Olympics and I’m looking forward to competing there.”