Decision to postpone Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games welcomed by sporting bodies based at University of Bath

24 March 2020

The decision to postpone the Tokyo 2020 Olympic & Paralympic Games until the summer of 2021 has been welcomed by athletes and sport national governing bodies who train at the University of Bath.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Japanese Government took the decision on Tuesday in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic and the impact it has had on athletes’ training and preparation.

Sara Heath, CEO of Pentathlon GB whose national training centre has been based at the University since 1998, said: “Whilst everyone at Pentathlon GB is understandably disappointed that the Games cannot go ahead, the decision to postpone the Games is welcomed, alongside the certainty and clarity it now provides the athletes, support staff and coaches.

“We have been working hard to provide adequate support and guidance for the athletes during recent weeks and despite the situation changing on an almost daily basis, we have been impressed with their positive attitudes and willingness to adapt to the challenging situation they have found themselves in.”

Jack Buckner, CEO of British Swimming who have a successful National Centre training squad based at the University, said: “Given the current circumstances this is undoubtedly the right decision. The global COVID-19 pandemic is affecting people worldwide; getting it under control and protecting the health of the global population should clearly be the number one priority at this moment in time.”

Sponsors
Partners and Suppliers