Dick Pound quoted in USA Today states Tokyo Olympics "are not going to start on 24 July, that much I know”
Veteran International Olympic Committee member Dick Pound states Tokyo Olympics “are not going to start on 24 July, that much I know”.
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Dick Pound was speaking to American news outlet USA Today, “On the basis of the information the IOC has, postponement has been decided. The parameters going forward have not been determined, but the Games are not going to start on July 24, that much I know.”
Pound elaborated: “It will come in stages. We will postpone this and begin to deal with all the ramifications of moving this, which are immense.”
The IOC themselves have not issued any formal statement on postponement or cancellation of the games. Referring to Dick Pound’s statement, IOC spokesman Mark Adams: “It is the right of every IOC member to interpret the decision of the IOC executive board which was announced [on Sunday].”
This announcement comes hot on the heels of Canada and Australia pulling out of the Tokyo Olympics in their current schedule. The Great British team are also making similar noises with the British Olympic Association chair, Hugh Robertson telling The Guardian that “I don’t think there is any way we can send a team”.
The IOC themselves have stated that they will make a decision within four weeks but with the current Coronavirus situation, this is seen as widely improbable and a decision must be made this week.
The most widespread thought is that the Olympics will be postponed until 2021.
mbr’s current position on cycling during coronavirus crisis
- The government has advised on the importance of exercise, and the options are limited while taking into account the need to reduce social contact. Therefore cycling is a good way for people to stay healthy at this stage of the crisis.
- The stress of the current situation and the demands of social distancing will put additional strain on individuals’ mental well-being, and cycling is known to be beneficial in this regard.
- Cyclists should adhere to the guidelines in place, including respecting social distancing and avoiding cafes/restaurants. Therefore they should be self-sufficient in terms of food, drink and tools to fix common roadside problems. They should also carry tissues, and dispose of them properly after their ride.
- Cycling is not inherently dangerous, but riders should still be especially careful on the roads. This isn’t the time to try to set KOMs on descents – ride sensibly for fitness and happiness, not for white-knuckle thrills.
- The above only covers the general populace who are being asked to limit social contact. Anyone who needs to self-isolate – for example if they or someone they live with is showing symptoms – should not be cycling.