The World Anti-Doping Agency said Monday it had moved next week's crucial Executive Committee meeting from Paris to Lausanne because of fears of disruption caused by strike action in the French capital.

WADA confirmed the venue switch to Switzerland in a brief statement.

"WADA has taken the decision to relocate (the meeting) to Lausanne due to likely disruptions and uncertainty caused by imminent general strike action in Paris," WADA said.

The December 9 meeting is expected to see WADA chiefs approve a recommendation by the body's Compliance Review Committee concerning Russia.

The WADA compliance panel has called for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-seeks-russia-ban-over-doping-data-manipulation-264626">Russia to be banned</a> from sporting competitions for four years after accusing Moscow of falsifying laboratory data handed over to investigators earlier this year.

Under the proposed sanctions, Russian athletes would still be allowed to compete at the Olympics next year but only if they can demonstrate that they were not part of the Russian system.

Full disclosure of data from the Moscow laboratory was a key condition of Russia's controversial reinstatement by WADA in September 2018.

The Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) had been suspended for nearly three years previously over revelations of a vast state-supported doping program.

The World Anti-Doping Agency said Monday it had moved next week's crucial Executive Committee meeting from Paris to Lausanne because of fears of disruption caused by strike action in the French capital.

The World Anti-Doping Agency said Monday it had moved next week's crucial Executive Committee meeting from Paris to Lausanne because of fears of disruption caused by strike action in the French capital. WADA confirmed the venue switch to Switzerland in a brief statement. "WADA has taken the decision to relocate (the meeting) to Lausanne due to likely disruptions and uncertainty caused by imminent general strike action in Paris," WADA said. The December 9 meeting is expected to see WADA chiefs approve a recommendation by the body's Compliance Review Committee concerning Russia. The WADA compliance panel has called for Russia to be banned from sporting competitions for four years after accusing Moscow of falsifying laboratory data handed over to investigators earlier this year. Under the proposed sanctions, Russian athletes would still be allowed to compete at the Olympics next year but only if they can demonstrate that they were not part of the Russian system. Full disclosure of data from the Moscow laboratory was a key condition of Russia's controversial reinstatement by WADA in September 2018. The Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) had been suspended for nearly three years previously over revelations of a vast state-supported doping program.

WADA moves crucial ExCo meeting to Lausanne from Paris

Russia's Olympic Committee will do all it can to ensure Russian athletes take part in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/with-eight-months-from-tokyo-2020-venue-preparations-enter-final-stretch-263688">2020 Games</a>, its chief said Thursday, as the country faces a four-year doping ban.

"We will do everything in our power to ensure our team is in Tokyo under the Russian flag," news agency RIA Novosti quoted Stanislav Pozdnyakov as saying.

He said there were no "objective obstacles" to the "vast majority" of Russian athletes fully participating in the Olympics.&nbsp;

The compliance review committee at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-seeks-russia-ban-over-doping-data-manipulation-264626">World Anti-Doping Agency</a> (WADA) on Monday recommended a four-year sporting ban over falsified lab data it received from Russia.

If WADA chiefs adopt the committee's recommendations at a meeting in Paris on December 9, Russia faces exclusion from key sporting events including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The scandal has tainted Russia's sporting reputation since the revelation of large-scale state-sponsored doping aimed at improving Russia's medal performance at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.

Russian track and field athletes were barred from competing at the Rio Olympics in 2016 although Russians competing in other events were allowed to take part.

The ban was widened to include all events at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, though Russian competitors who could prove they were above suspicion were able to compete as neutrals under the Olympic flag.

Monday's call from the WADA review panel came after Russian authorities were accused of falsifying laboratory data related to the country's doping scandal, which were handed over to investigators in January.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has said it backs "the toughest sanctions against all those responsible for this manipulation," while cautioning against blanket sanctions that would punish the innocent.

If <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kremlin-says-russia-remains-open-to-cooperation-on-doping-264918">Russia challenges</a> an eventual suspension by WADA the case will go to the Swiss-based Court of Arbitration for Sport, whose decision will be binding on sports bodies including the International Olympic Committee

Russia's Olympic Committee will do all it can to ensure Russian athletes take part in the 2020 Games, its chief said Thursday, as the country faces a four-year doping ban.

Russia's Olympic Committee will do all it can to ensure Russian athletes take part in the 2020 Games, its chief said Thursday, as the country faces a four-year doping ban. "We will do everything in our power to ensure our team is in Tokyo under the Russian flag," news agency RIA Novosti quoted Stanislav Pozdnyakov as saying. He said there were no "objective obstacles" to the "vast majority" of Russian athletes fully participating in the Olympics. The compliance review committee at the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) on Monday recommended a four-year sporting ban over falsified lab data it received from Russia. If WADA chiefs adopt the committee's recommendations at a meeting in Paris on December 9, Russia faces exclusion from key sporting events including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The scandal has tainted Russia's sporting reputation since the revelation of large-scale state-sponsored doping aimed at improving Russia's medal performance at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. Russian track and field athletes were barred from competing at the Rio Olympics in 2016 although Russians competing in other events were allowed to take part. The ban was widened to include all events at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, though Russian competitors who could prove they were above suspicion were able to compete as neutrals under the Olympic flag. Monday's call from the WADA review panel came after Russian authorities were accused of falsifying laboratory data related to the country's doping scandal, which were handed over to investigators in January. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has said it backs "the toughest sanctions against all those responsible for this manipulation," while cautioning against blanket sanctions that would punish the innocent. If Russia challenges an eventual suspension by WADA the case will go to the Swiss-based Court of Arbitration for Sport, whose decision will be binding on sports bodies including the International Olympic Committee

Olympic chief says will 'do everything' to ensure Russia at 2020 Games

Russia could be barred from all sporting competitions including the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/with-eight-months-from-tokyo-2020-venue-preparations-enter-final-stretch-263688">Tokyo 2020</a> after a key World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) committee recommended a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympic-ban-looms-for-russia-after-wada-panel-ruling-263992">four-year ban</a> on the country for manipulating laboratory data.

WADA’s Compliance Review Committee (CRC) called for the proposed sanctions which are to be approved at an Executive Committee meeting in Paris on December 9.

In a 26-page report, CRC declared the&nbsp;Russian Anti Doping Agency (RUSADA) to be non-compliant after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-retrieves-more-than-2000-samples-from-tainted-moscow-lab-214962">data handed over</a> by the tainted Moscow laboratory was found to be "neither complete nor fully authentic".

The full disclosure of data was a key condition of Russia’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-to-reinstate-russia-after-doping-suspension-165699">reinstatement in 2018</a> after a nearly three-year-long ban which was followed by the revelation of vast state-supported doping programs in the country.&nbsp;

The historical data which was handed over to WADA in January was found to have “several aggravating features” as hundreds of analytical findings had been removed and raw data and PDF files were found to be deleted.&nbsp;

The four-year ban was one of the several "strong proposed consequences" by CRC over Russia which is to start "on the date on which the decision that Rusada is non-compliant becomes final".

If the “proposed consequences” are approved, Russia is to face a four-year ban on participation in international sporting events. Russian athletes and their personnel support may only be allowed to participate if they can prove that they are not associated with the Russian doping scandal, even then they will not be allowed to represent the Russian Federation.&nbsp;

Russia will not be allowed to host or bid to host any major sporting events. If Russia has already won a bid, the hosting rights will be transferred to another country unless "it is legally or practically impossible to do so." This could potentially threaten Saint Petersburg's staging of three games and a quarter-final for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/euro-2020-qualifiers-with-20-out-of-24-berths-filled-england-france-italy-top-their-groups-263461">Euro 2020</a>.

The country will also not be allowed to bid for the right to host 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, irrespective of whether the bidding takes place during or after the four year period.

Russian government officials and representatives will be banned from attending and participating in events of any signatory to World Anti Doping Code. They will also be barred from the boards, committees or any other bodies of the same.&nbsp;

Russia’s flag also may not be flown at any major event staged in the four-year period.

RUSADA’s chief Yury Ganus on Tuesday said that he expected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-was-not-equipped-to-handle-size-of-russian-doping-scandal-reedie-260238">WADA</a> to uphold the recommendations as “that’s the reality”. &nbsp;

Ganus added that Russia was in urgent need of new sports management, urging &nbsp;President Vladimir Putin to intervene.

"Honestly, I am waiting for the president to take an active part in this," Ganus told reporters.

“There are a lot of problems in sports here but the most difficult and tragic thing is that our athletes have become hostages of the actions of our sports officials...We need to push through real changes...We need new sports leaders,” he added.&nbsp;

The recommendations are the latest in Russia’s doping saga which is being dragged since 2015 which found more than 1000 Russian athletes being benefited from the state-supported doping program in the period of 2011-2015, a period that included 2014 winter Olympics that were held in Russia.

Russia could be barred from all sporting competitions including the Tokyo 2020 after a key World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) committee recommended a four-year ban on the country for manipulating laboratory data.

Russia could be barred from all sporting competitions including the Tokyo 2020 after a key World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) committee recommended a four-year ban on the country for manipulating laboratory data. WADA’s Compliance Review Committee (CRC) called for the proposed sanctions which are to be approved at an Executive Committee meeting in Paris on December 9. In a 26-page report, CRC declared the Russian Anti Doping Agency (RUSADA) to be non-compliant after the data handed over by the tainted Moscow laboratory was found to be "neither complete nor fully authentic". The full disclosure of data was a key condition of Russia’s reinstatement in 2018 after a nearly three-year-long ban which was followed by the revelation of vast state-supported doping programs in the country. The historical data which was handed over to WADA in January was found to have “several aggravating features” as hundreds of analytical findings had been removed and raw data and PDF files were found to be deleted. The four-year ban was one of the several "strong proposed consequences" by CRC over Russia which is to start "on the date on which the decision that Rusada is non-compliant becomes final". If the “proposed consequences” are approved, Russia is to face a four-year ban on participation in international sporting events. Russian athletes and their personnel support may only be allowed to participate if they can prove that they are not associated with the Russian doping scandal, even then they will not be allowed to represent the Russian Federation. Russia will not be allowed to host or bid to host any major sporting events. If Russia has already won a bid, the hosting rights will be transferred to another country unless "it is legally or practically impossible to do so." This could potentially threaten Saint Petersburg's staging of three games and a quarter-final for Euro 2020. The country will also not be allowed to bid for the right to host 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, irrespective of whether the bidding takes place during or after the four year period. Russian government officials and representatives will be banned from attending and participating in events of any signatory to World Anti Doping Code. They will also be barred from the boards, committees or any other bodies of the same. Russia’s flag also may not be flown at any major event staged in the four-year period. RUSADA’s chief Yury Ganus on Tuesday said that he expected WADA to uphold the recommendations as “that’s the reality”. Ganus added that Russia was in urgent need of new sports management, urging President Vladimir Putin to intervene. "Honestly, I am waiting for the president to take an active part in this," Ganus told reporters. “There are a lot of problems in sports here but the most difficult and tragic thing is that our athletes have become hostages of the actions of our sports officials...We need to push through real changes...We need new sports leaders,” he added. The recommendations are the latest in Russia’s doping saga which is being dragged since 2015 which found more than 1000 Russian athletes being benefited from the state-supported doping program in the period of 2011-2015, a period that included 2014 winter Olympics that were held in Russia.

WADA seeks Russia ban over doping data manipulation

The prospect of Russia being banned from next year's Olympics loomed closer on Friday as a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-anti-doping-agency-to-investigate-athletes-coached-by-banned-salazar-report-259997">World Anti-Doping Agency</a> (WADA) panel recommended the country's drug-testing authority be declared non-compliant with international rules.

In a statement, WADA said its Compliance Review Committee (CRC) had recommended that the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) be suspended again when the global anti-doping watchdog's Executive Committee meets in Paris on December 9.

If WADA chiefs adopt the recommendation, Russia faces severe sanctions including a possible ban from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The CRC issued its recommendation after asking Russia to explain "inconsistencies" in laboratory data handed over by Moscow to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wadas-russian-investigation-enters-new-phase-219322">WADA investigators</a> in January.

Full disclosure of data from the Moscow laboratory was a key condition of Russia's controversial reinstatement by WADA in September 2018.

RUSADA had been suspended for nearly three years over revelations of a vast, state-backed doping regime which including a systematic conspiracy to switch tainted samples at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.

WADA had previously warned Russia would face the "most stringent sanctions" if any of the data handed over was found to have been tampered with.

In its statement on Friday, WADA said the CRC suggested "serious consequences in line with the International Standard for Code Compliance by Signatories."&nbsp;

The United States Anti-Doping Agency, which was sharply critical of WADA's decision to lift its suspension of reinstate RUSADA, called for a lengthy ban following Friday's announcement.

"Anything less than a four-year sanction for this critical violation that includes aggravating circumstances following years of denial and deceit would be another injustice in a long line of many for clean athletes," USADA chief executive Travis Tygart said in emailed comments to AFP.

Friday's development is the latest twist to a saga which exploded in 2015, when an independent WADA commission investigating allegations of Russian doping said it had found evidence of a vast state-supported conspiracy stretching back years.

A 2016 report by WADA investigator Richard McLaren said more than 1,000 Russian competitors across multiple&nbsp;sports&nbsp;had benefited from the scheme between 2011 and 2015.

In an interview with AFP last month, RUSADA's chief Yuri Ganus appeared resigned to Russia being handed an Olympic ban, accusing unidentified Moscow authorities of handing over falsified lab data to WADA.

"Russia's Olympic squad will be prevented from participating fully in the Olympic Games in Tokyo.... I think that this will also happen at the (Winter Olympic) Games in China," Ganus told AFP.

Russia was already banned from the 2018 Winter Olympics, although some 168 athletes were allowed to compete under a neutral "Olympic Athlete From Russia" designation.

Ganus said he expected a range of other penalties too, including restrictions on holding international tournaments in Russia, exclusion of Russians from international&nbsp;sports&nbsp;federations and fines.

Ganus insisted RUSADA officials had not been responsible for falsifying the data, insisting his staff "had nothing to do with the database and its transfer."&nbsp;

Russian&nbsp;Sports&nbsp;Minister Pavel Kolobkov later denied the data had been tampered with, stating "nothing was removed" before the cache of information was handed over.&nbsp;

"There was not any manipulation as the head of Russia's anti-doping laboratory, Yuri Ganus, says. That's our position," Kolobkov said.

Friday's announcement by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-was-not-equipped-to-handle-size-of-russian-doping-scandal-reedie-260238">WADA</a> came as World Athletics (formerly IAAF), the governing body for track and field, abruptly halted Russia's reinstatement process into the&nbsp;sport.

The World Athletics decision was taken after the president of the Russian athletics federation (RUSAF), Dmitry Shlyakhtin, and other senior officials were suspended for "serious breaches" of anti-doping rules.

The prospect of Russia being banned from next year's Olympics loomed closer on Friday as a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) panel recommended the country's drug-testing authority be declared non-compliant with international rules.

The prospect of Russia being banned from next year's Olympics loomed closer on Friday as a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) panel recommended the country's drug-testing authority be declared non-compliant with international rules. In a statement, WADA said its Compliance Review Committee (CRC) had recommended that the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) be suspended again when the global anti-doping watchdog's Executive Committee meets in Paris on December 9. If WADA chiefs adopt the recommendation, Russia faces severe sanctions including a possible ban from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The CRC issued its recommendation after asking Russia to explain "inconsistencies" in laboratory data handed over by Moscow to WADA investigators in January. Full disclosure of data from the Moscow laboratory was a key condition of Russia's controversial reinstatement by WADA in September 2018. RUSADA had been suspended for nearly three years over revelations of a vast, state-backed doping regime which including a systematic conspiracy to switch tainted samples at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. WADA had previously warned Russia would face the "most stringent sanctions" if any of the data handed over was found to have been tampered with. In its statement on Friday, WADA said the CRC suggested "serious consequences in line with the International Standard for Code Compliance by Signatories." The United States Anti-Doping Agency, which was sharply critical of WADA's decision to lift its suspension of reinstate RUSADA, called for a lengthy ban following Friday's announcement. "Anything less than a four-year sanction for this critical violation that includes aggravating circumstances following years of denial and deceit would be another injustice in a long line of many for clean athletes," USADA chief executive Travis Tygart said in emailed comments to AFP. Friday's development is the latest twist to a saga which exploded in 2015, when an independent WADA commission investigating allegations of Russian doping said it had found evidence of a vast state-supported conspiracy stretching back years. A 2016 report by WADA investigator Richard McLaren said more than 1,000 Russian competitors across multiple sports had benefited from the scheme between 2011 and 2015. In an interview with AFP last month, RUSADA's chief Yuri Ganus appeared resigned to Russia being handed an Olympic ban, accusing unidentified Moscow authorities of handing over falsified lab data to WADA. "Russia's Olympic squad will be prevented from participating fully in the Olympic Games in Tokyo.... I think that this will also happen at the (Winter Olympic) Games in China," Ganus told AFP. Russia was already banned from the 2018 Winter Olympics, although some 168 athletes were allowed to compete under a neutral "Olympic Athlete From Russia" designation. Ganus said he expected a range of other penalties too, including restrictions on holding international tournaments in Russia, exclusion of Russians from international sports federations and fines. Ganus insisted RUSADA officials had not been responsible for falsifying the data, insisting his staff "had nothing to do with the database and its transfer." Russian Sports Minister Pavel Kolobkov later denied the data had been tampered with, stating "nothing was removed" before the cache of information was handed over. "There was not any manipulation as the head of Russia's anti-doping laboratory, Yuri Ganus, says. That's our position," Kolobkov said. Friday's announcement by WADA came as World Athletics (formerly IAAF), the governing body for track and field, abruptly halted Russia's reinstatement process into the sport. The World Athletics decision was taken after the president of the Russian athletics federation (RUSAF), Dmitry Shlyakhtin, and other senior officials were suspended for "serious breaches" of anti-doping rules.

Olympic ban looms for Russia after WADA panel ruling

In pics: Here's how Tokyo is gearing up for Olympics 2020

American hurdler Dawn Harper Nelson is coming out of retirement to chase more Olympic gold, the 35-year-old has said.

Harper Nelson, who gave birth to a daughter in April, said on Monday she was training for the 2020 Tokyo Games and hoped to win a third Olympic 100m hurdles medal.

"I know I still have the talent and can do it," Harper Nelson, the 2008 Olympic champion and 2012 silver medallist, told Reuters by telephone.

She retired from the sport in 2018 to start a family but said her Olympic dream never really died.

"The whole time, I didn't know in my heart if I was done," Harper Nelson said.

During her pregnancy she continued to work out, telling friends she just wanted to feel good, but talk of making a return became serious after her daughter's birth and she went back to the track in May.

"I didn't want Harper to feel like her birth symbolized mom's dream dying," said Harper Nelson, who won her first world championship medal, a bronze, in 2011.

"So I talked with my family and I talked with my husband, and my husband was like, 'We are doing it if you want to do it.'"

Discussions are underway for longtime mentor Bob Kersee to direct her training again with her husband, Alonzo Nelson, assisting in East St. Louis.

The challenge will not be an easy one, even though her physio team has told the 2017 world silver medallist that physically she looks the best she has in years.

Americans swept all three medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics and took the top two spots at the recent Doha world championships.

But Harper Nelson believes she can be in the mix.

"I know I still have the speed and with my technique, I think I can still put together an amazing race and still run some personal bests," said the American, whose personal best of 12.37 seconds makes her the joint 13th fastest hurdler of all-time.

She hopes to start the comeback with several indoor meets.

"That (indoor meets) will be important because when I started training, I didn't have that pop, that burst of speed," said Harper Nelson.

"I've tasted gold, silver and bronze and gold tastes the best," she said of her medal haul.

American hurdler Dawn Harper Nelson is coming out of retirement to chase more Olympic gold, the 35-year-old has said. Harper Nelson, who gave birth to a daughter in April, said on Monday she was training for the 2020 Tokyo Games and hoped to win a third Olympic 100m hurdles medal.

American hurdler Dawn Harper Nelson is coming out of retirement to chase more Olympic gold, the 35-year-old has said. Harper Nelson, who gave birth to a daughter in April, said on Monday she was training for the 2020 Tokyo Games and hoped to win a third Olympic 100m hurdles medal. "I know I still have the talent and can do it," Harper Nelson, the 2008 Olympic champion and 2012 silver medallist, told Reuters by telephone. She retired from the sport in 2018 to start a family but said her Olympic dream never really died. "The whole time, I didn't know in my heart if I was done," Harper Nelson said. During her pregnancy she continued to work out, telling friends she just wanted to feel good, but talk of making a return became serious after her daughter's birth and she went back to the track in May. "I didn't want Harper to feel like her birth symbolized mom's dream dying," said Harper Nelson, who won her first world championship medal, a bronze, in 2011. "So I talked with my family and I talked with my husband, and my husband was like, 'We are doing it if you want to do it.'" Discussions are underway for longtime mentor Bob Kersee to direct her training again with her husband, Alonzo Nelson, assisting in East St. Louis. The challenge will not be an easy one, even though her physio team has told the 2017 world silver medallist that physically she looks the best she has in years. Americans swept all three medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics and took the top two spots at the recent Doha world championships. But Harper Nelson believes she can be in the mix. "I know I still have the speed and with my technique, I think I can still put together an amazing race and still run some personal bests," said the American, whose personal best of 12.37 seconds makes her the joint 13th fastest hurdler of all-time. She hopes to start the comeback with several indoor meets. "That (indoor meets) will be important because when I started training, I didn't have that pop, that burst of speed," said Harper Nelson. "I've tasted gold, silver and bronze and gold tastes the best," she said of her medal haul.

Hurdler Harper Nelson ends retirement to chase Olympic gold

India women's hockey team sealed their berth in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics after defeating the USA in the qualifiers here on Saturday. 
 
In the first leg of the qualifiers on Friday, India defeated the USA 5-1. 
 
In the second leg of the Olympic qualifiers, the USA had the first sight of goal in the 5th minute of the match. Kathleen Sharkey then added another goal of the match when the game was in the 14th minute. 
 
The USA continued its aggressive form in the game and just after six minutes, the team took their lead to three goals with the help of Alyssa Parker's strike. 
 
Consolidating the USA's position further in the match, Amanda Magadan netted another goal, taking the scoreline to 0-4. 
 
India scored a goal in the 49th minute, taking the scoreline to 1-4. The team then played cautiously and restricted the USA from scoring more goals. 
 
Hence the game concluded with an aggregate score of 6-5 which enabled India to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics.

India women's hockey team sealed their berth in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics after defeating the USA in the qualifiers here on Saturday. In the first leg of the qualifiers on Friday, India defeated the USA 5-1.

India women's hockey team sealed their berth in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics after defeating the USA in the qualifiers here on Saturday. In the first leg of the qualifiers on Friday, India defeated the USA 5-1. In the second leg of the Olympic qualifiers, the USA had the first sight of goal in the 5th minute of the match. Kathleen Sharkey then added another goal of the match when the game was in the 14th minute. The USA continued its aggressive form in the game and just after six minutes, the team took their lead to three goals with the help of Alyssa Parker's strike. Consolidating the USA's position further in the match, Amanda Magadan netted another goal, taking the scoreline to 0-4. India scored a goal in the 49th minute, taking the scoreline to 1-4. The team then played cautiously and restricted the USA from scoring more goals. Hence the game concluded with an aggregate score of 6-5 which enabled India to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics.

Indian women hockey team qualifies for Tokyo Olympics

Golfing great&nbsp;Tiger&nbsp;Woods&nbsp;is&nbsp;targeting&nbsp;the&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;as he seeks to add another glittering chapter to his storied career.

Golf returned to the Games in 2016 after a 112-year absence but&nbsp;Woods, who dominated the sport in the first decade of the 21st century, missed its return through injury.

"Making the Olympic team is a big goal," the 15-times major winner told Reuters in an emailed interview. "I don't see myself having too many opportunities other than next year.

"Four years from now, at the next Olympic Games, I’ll be 48-years-old. To be one of the top Americans at that age is going to be tough.

"I went to my first Olympic Games when it was in Los Angeles (1984). So now to have the opportunity to be a part of the&nbsp;Olympics, because golf in my lifetime wasn't a part of the&nbsp;Olympics, is an important aspect for us and the growth of the game.

"The game has become so global, and so reaching, that I think the Olympic Games is a great extension of that and I'd like to be a part of it."

Woods&nbsp;will get a taste of golf-crazy Japan when he competes in 'The Challenge: Japan Skins' on October 21.

Woods&nbsp;will take part in a high-stakes challenge at the Accordia Golf Narashino Country Club in Chiba alongside Rory McIlroy, Jason Day and Hideki Matsuyama.

The extravaganza, which will in part be floodlit, is being televised globally by GOLFTV and will be played under the 'skins' format.

The format, designed to encourage aggressive play from start to finish, forces players to win a hole outright to take a “skin”, with tied holes resulting in a “push” of the skin to the next hole.

Woods,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-victory-in-masters-a-win-for-golf-business-210868"> who won the Masters</a> earlier this year to end an 11-year wait for his 15th Major, says he is thrilled to be back at the top of the sport after injuries caused four back surgeries between 2014 and 2017.

"To be able to have played the last couple of years after where I was (with injury)... and to have two wins in my last two years – I definitely would not have foreseen that at the time, pre-surgery.

"So I’m just excited and ecstatic to be able to participate in golf at this level again. I missed it. I missed competing against these guys.

"The interesting thing about now is that when I was out, there was a whole generation of guys that I didn’t really compete against.

"Whether it was Jordan (Spieth), JT (Justin Thomas), Bryson (Dechambeau) or Patrick (Reed) these guys were just coming out and I missed that. Now they’re established and I’m coming back into the game, so it’s been fun to compete against those guys, not to mention some of the older guys."

If he is to realise his Olympic dreams it seems likely&nbsp;Woods&nbsp;will be competing against players from this new generation to earn a spot at&nbsp;Tokyo.

Golfing great Tiger Woods is targeting the Tokyo Olympics as he seeks to add another glittering chapter to his storied career. Golf returned to the Games in 2016 after a 112-year absence but Woods, who dominated the sport in the first decade of the 21st century, missed its return through injury.

Golfing great Tiger Woods is targeting the Tokyo Olympics as he seeks to add another glittering chapter to his storied career. Golf returned to the Games in 2016 after a 112-year absence but Woods, who dominated the sport in the first decade of the 21st century, missed its return through injury. "Making the Olympic team is a big goal," the 15-times major winner told Reuters in an emailed interview. "I don't see myself having too many opportunities other than next year. "Four years from now, at the next Olympic Games, I’ll be 48-years-old. To be one of the top Americans at that age is going to be tough. "I went to my first Olympic Games when it was in Los Angeles (1984). So now to have the opportunity to be a part of the Olympics, because golf in my lifetime wasn't a part of the Olympics, is an important aspect for us and the growth of the game. "The game has become so global, and so reaching, that I think the Olympic Games is a great extension of that and I'd like to be a part of it." Woods will get a taste of golf-crazy Japan when he competes in 'The Challenge: Japan Skins' on October 21. Woods will take part in a high-stakes challenge at the Accordia Golf Narashino Country Club in Chiba alongside Rory McIlroy, Jason Day and Hideki Matsuyama. The extravaganza, which will in part be floodlit, is being televised globally by GOLFTV and will be played under the 'skins' format. The format, designed to encourage aggressive play from start to finish, forces players to win a hole outright to take a “skin”, with tied holes resulting in a “push” of the skin to the next hole. Woods, who won the Masters earlier this year to end an 11-year wait for his 15th Major, says he is thrilled to be back at the top of the sport after injuries caused four back surgeries between 2014 and 2017. "To be able to have played the last couple of years after where I was (with injury)... and to have two wins in my last two years – I definitely would not have foreseen that at the time, pre-surgery. "So I’m just excited and ecstatic to be able to participate in golf at this level again. I missed it. I missed competing against these guys. "The interesting thing about now is that when I was out, there was a whole generation of guys that I didn’t really compete against. "Whether it was Jordan (Spieth), JT (Justin Thomas), Bryson (Dechambeau) or Patrick (Reed) these guys were just coming out and I missed that. Now they’re established and I’m coming back into the game, so it’s been fun to compete against those guys, not to mention some of the older guys." If he is to realise his Olympic dreams it seems likely Woods will be competing against players from this new generation to earn a spot at Tokyo.

Tiger Woods targeting Tokyo Olympics

Roger Federer confirmed his participation in next year's Olympic Games in Tokyo and said on Monday that he had listened to his heart before making the decision.

The Swiss 38-year-old competed in the first of four Olympic Games at Sydney in 2000 and won the doubles gold partnering Stan Wawrinka in 2008 and a silver in singles in 2012. He missed the 2016 Olympics due to a knee injury.

"At the end of the day my heart decided I would love to play the Olympic Games again," Federer told reporters during a promotional event for his sponsor Uniqlo in Tokyo.

Federer will attempt to win a singles gold medal at the July 24-August 9 Games, the only major prize that the 20-time Grand Slam winner has yet to win.

"I've been debating with my team for a few weeks now, months actually, what I should do in the summer after Wimbledon and before the US&nbsp;Open (in 2020)," Federer, who will turn 39 during the Games, added.

"I carried the flag twice for Switzerland in Athens and Beijing, I've got a gold and a silver, and I would love to play again so I'm very excited."

Federer will require an exemption to compete in Tokyo as he is yet to play in the Davis Cup for Switzerland in the current Olympic cycle that began after the Rio Olympics in 2016.

To fulfil the ITF participation requirements, a player must be part of a Davis Cup or Fed Cup team and present at the tie on at least three occasions in the Olympic Cycle, provided one of those ties is in 2019 or 2020.

Federer will have little reason to worry, however, as one of the special conditions that could gain him entry is his historical participation in the Games and the Davis Cup, as stated in the ITF's regulations.&nbsp;

Switzerland's national tennis federation confirmed it would appeal to the ITF for Federer's inclusion.

Roger Federer confirmed his participation in next year's Olympic Games in Tokyo and said on Monday that he had listened to his heart before making the decision. The Swiss 38-year-old competed in the first of four Olympic Games at Sydney in 2000 and won the doubles gold partnering Stan Wawrinka in 2008 and a silver in singles in 2012.

Roger Federer confirmed his participation in next year's Olympic Games in Tokyo and said on Monday that he had listened to his heart before making the decision. The Swiss 38-year-old competed in the first of four Olympic Games at Sydney in 2000 and won the doubles gold partnering Stan Wawrinka in 2008 and a silver in singles in 2012. He missed the 2016 Olympics due to a knee injury. "At the end of the day my heart decided I would love to play the Olympic Games again," Federer told reporters during a promotional event for his sponsor Uniqlo in Tokyo. Federer will attempt to win a singles gold medal at the July 24-August 9 Games, the only major prize that the 20-time Grand Slam winner has yet to win. "I've been debating with my team for a few weeks now, months actually, what I should do in the summer after Wimbledon and before the US Open (in 2020)," Federer, who will turn 39 during the Games, added. "I carried the flag twice for Switzerland in Athens and Beijing, I've got a gold and a silver, and I would love to play again so I'm very excited." Federer will require an exemption to compete in Tokyo as he is yet to play in the Davis Cup for Switzerland in the current Olympic cycle that began after the Rio Olympics in 2016. To fulfil the ITF participation requirements, a player must be part of a Davis Cup or Fed Cup team and present at the tie on at least three occasions in the Olympic Cycle, provided one of those ties is in 2019 or 2020. Federer will have little reason to worry, however, as one of the special conditions that could gain him entry is his historical participation in the Games and the Davis Cup, as stated in the ITF's regulations. Switzerland's national tennis federation confirmed it would appeal to the ITF for Federer's inclusion.

I would love to play the Olympic Games again: Roger Federer

Tokyo 2020 organisers blasted volunteers with fake snow on Friday as they trial ever more extreme ways to beat the heat ahead of the Games.

But instead of light fluffy snowflakes, the crowd, consisting mainly of Tokyo 2020 staff, was pelted with fairly coarse shards of shaved ice at the canoeing test event.

And ironically, after several weeks of almost unbroken heat and humidity, Friday saw temperatures in the Japanese capital drop sharply — no doubt a relief to millions of Tokyo commuters and players training for the forthcoming Rugby World Cup.

"We are trying everything possible to ease heat risks," said Taka Okamura, from the 2020 organising committee.

"This is not meant to cool the entire atmosphere but have spectators feel refreshed when the flakes of ice touch them," added Okamura, who acknowledged that the system needed some refinement.

One problem became immediately apparent after the volunteers were doused in 300 kilograms (650 pounds) of snow in a matter of minutes: the "spectators" were quickly soaked through and the floor became slippery — resulting in one journalist taking a tumble.

Okamura played down any environmental risks from the system — such as CO2 emissions from the machine — and declined to reveal its cost. Tokyo 2020 officials have admitted in the past that anti-heat measures will swell the budget for the Games.

Tokyo 2020 organisers have largely won praise for their preparations for the Games. With the construction work on track, IOC President Thomas Bach has said Tokyo is the best-prepared host ever with less than a year to go until the opening ceremony.

But the sweltering Tokyo heat has already proved a headache and there are fears for athletes, volunteers and spectators if conditions in recent summers are repeated at Games time.

Test events in August did little to allay those fears, with a French triathlete taken to hospital with suspected heatstroke, complaints about the water temperature for marathon swimming, and people taken ill at a rowing trial.

One member of the French parathletics team attending Friday's event pointed to another potential problem of the fake snow hose.

"When the wind is blowing in the wrong direction pushing the snow out of the stands, I'm not sure it is going to be that efficient," he said.

Tokyo 2020 organisers blasted volunteers with fake snow on Friday as they trial ever more extreme ways to beat the heat ahead of the Games. But instead of light fluffy snowflakes, the crowd, consisting mainly of Tokyo 2020 staff, was pelted with fairly coarse shards of shaved ice at the canoeing test event.

Tokyo 2020 organisers blasted volunteers with fake snow on Friday as they trial ever more extreme ways to beat the heat ahead of the Games. But instead of light fluffy snowflakes, the crowd, consisting mainly of Tokyo 2020 staff, was pelted with fairly coarse shards of shaved ice at the canoeing test event. And ironically, after several weeks of almost unbroken heat and humidity, Friday saw temperatures in the Japanese capital drop sharply — no doubt a relief to millions of Tokyo commuters and players training for the forthcoming Rugby World Cup. "We are trying everything possible to ease heat risks," said Taka Okamura, from the 2020 organising committee. "This is not meant to cool the entire atmosphere but have spectators feel refreshed when the flakes of ice touch them," added Okamura, who acknowledged that the system needed some refinement. One problem became immediately apparent after the volunteers were doused in 300 kilograms (650 pounds) of snow in a matter of minutes: the "spectators" were quickly soaked through and the floor became slippery — resulting in one journalist taking a tumble. Okamura played down any environmental risks from the system — such as CO2 emissions from the machine — and declined to reveal its cost. Tokyo 2020 officials have admitted in the past that anti-heat measures will swell the budget for the Games. Tokyo 2020 organisers have largely won praise for their preparations for the Games. With the construction work on track, IOC President Thomas Bach has said Tokyo is the best-prepared host ever with less than a year to go until the opening ceremony. But the sweltering Tokyo heat has already proved a headache and there are fears for athletes, volunteers and spectators if conditions in recent summers are repeated at Games time. Test events in August did little to allay those fears, with a French triathlete taken to hospital with suspected heatstroke, complaints about the water temperature for marathon swimming, and people taken ill at a rowing trial. One member of the French parathletics team attending Friday's event pointed to another potential problem of the fake snow hose. "When the wind is blowing in the wrong direction pushing the snow out of the stands, I'm not sure it is going to be that efficient," he said.

Cold comfort: Tokyo 2020 tests fake snow to beat the heat

Searing heat and water quality issues have dogged Tokyo 2020 organisers in recent weeks but delegates to a Chef de Mission seminar on Tuesday said they are confident their hosts will find solutions ahead of next year's Summer Olympics.

The three-day visit by the National Olympic Committees (NOCs), which includes a progress update and venue tour, comes after recent test events highlighted potential problems for next year's Games, which kick off on July 24.

Soaring temperatures have killed at least 57 people across Japan since late July, highlighting the possible health threat to athletes and fans.

At the triathlon test event last week, the sport’s governing body reduced the distance of the run segment in the women’s race because of heat concerns.

The swimming segment of Saturday’s paratriathlon was cancelled altogether because high levels of E.coli bacteria were found in the water of Tokyo Bay.

However, Dutch Chef de Mission Pieter van den Hoogenband, a three-time Olympic gold medallist swimmer, said the NOCs were confident in Tokyo 2020’s ability to overcome the issues.

“Of course we know there are some heat issues but overall, for all the different teams, these are the circumstances and we have to deal with it,” said van den Hoogenbrand, who represented the NOCs during a visit to the Olympic Stadium on Tuesday.

“Top athletes know that they have to perform in any circumstances.

"Because of the test events, we get a lot of information and a lot of data and the way the organising committee is taking all that data to make it even more perfect ... I was impressed with the way they handled things."

Single-layer underwater screens installed in&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;Bay have helped reduce the bacteria, organisers have said, but triple-layer screens will be in place by the time the Games begin.

Tokyo 2020 also confirmed on Tuesday that South Korea's NOC had sent a letter to organisers expressing concern at the possibility of produce grown in Fukushima prefecture being served to athletes in the Olympic village.

South Korea says it is worried that any food produced in Fukushima could be contaminated by the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant that was severely damaged by the 2011 tsunami.

“Within our planning framework we will respond to them accordingly,” said Tokyo 2020’s Director of NOC Services Toru Kobayashi.

“We have said that we will respond to them properly. We have had no further questions (from South Korea)."

Relations between the two U.S. allies are at their worst in years, with a trade row rooted in a decades-old dispute over compensation for Koreans forced to work during Japan's wartime occupation of South Korea.

Searing heat and water quality issues have dogged Tokyo 2020 organisers in recent weeks but delegates to a Chef de Mission seminar on Tuesday said they are confident their hosts will find solutions ahead of next year's Summer Olympics.

Searing heat and water quality issues have dogged Tokyo 2020 organisers in recent weeks but delegates to a Chef de Mission seminar on Tuesday said they are confident their hosts will find solutions ahead of next year's Summer Olympics. The three-day visit by the National Olympic Committees (NOCs), which includes a progress update and venue tour, comes after recent test events highlighted potential problems for next year's Games, which kick off on July 24. Soaring temperatures have killed at least 57 people across Japan since late July, highlighting the possible health threat to athletes and fans. At the triathlon test event last week, the sport’s governing body reduced the distance of the run segment in the women’s race because of heat concerns. The swimming segment of Saturday’s paratriathlon was cancelled altogether because high levels of E.coli bacteria were found in the water of Tokyo Bay. However, Dutch Chef de Mission Pieter van den Hoogenband, a three-time Olympic gold medallist swimmer, said the NOCs were confident in Tokyo 2020’s ability to overcome the issues. “Of course we know there are some heat issues but overall, for all the different teams, these are the circumstances and we have to deal with it,” said van den Hoogenbrand, who represented the NOCs during a visit to the Olympic Stadium on Tuesday. “Top athletes know that they have to perform in any circumstances. "Because of the test events, we get a lot of information and a lot of data and the way the organising committee is taking all that data to make it even more perfect ... I was impressed with the way they handled things." Single-layer underwater screens installed in Tokyo Bay have helped reduce the bacteria, organisers have said, but triple-layer screens will be in place by the time the Games begin. Tokyo 2020 also confirmed on Tuesday that South Korea's NOC had sent a letter to organisers expressing concern at the possibility of produce grown in Fukushima prefecture being served to athletes in the Olympic village. South Korea says it is worried that any food produced in Fukushima could be contaminated by the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant that was severely damaged by the 2011 tsunami. “Within our planning framework we will respond to them accordingly,” said Tokyo 2020’s Director of NOC Services Toru Kobayashi. “We have said that we will respond to them properly. We have had no further questions (from South Korea)." Relations between the two U.S. allies are at their worst in years, with a trade row rooted in a decades-old dispute over compensation for Koreans forced to work during Japan's wartime occupation of South Korea.

NOCs confident Tokyo 2020 can overcome heat, water quality issues

The Indian men's hockey team registered a 6-3 win over Japan in their third match of the Olympic Test Event at the Oi Hockey Stadium here on Tuesday to reach the final of the tournament.

Mandeep Singh displayed a brilliant form as he scored thrice in the game. Nilakanta Sharma found the target first through a field goal in the third minute.

India were awarded a penalty corner four minutes after Sharma's goal and Nilam Sanjeep Xess made no mistake, taking lead to 2-0. Mandeep Singh did not take much time to consolidate the position as he netted in the ninth minute.

Kentaro Fukuda opened the account for Japan striking in the 25th minute. However, impeccable goals by Mandeep Singh in the 29th and 30th minute took the tally to 5-1.

Japan's Kenta Tanaka fought back and scored in the 36th minute. India registered their sixth goal through Gurjant Singh in the 41st minute.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
FT: 🇮🇳 6-3 🇯🇵 
 
WHAT. A. WIN. 
 
After a hiccup in the previous game, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> are back to winning ways as they book their berth in the FINALS. 💪 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadySteadyTokyo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadySteadyTokyo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvJPN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvJPN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTeamIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WeAreTeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/flOg7JAJbE">pic.twitter.com/flOg7JAJbE</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1163671138842509312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Japan launched an attack in the fourth quarter and succeded in the 52nd minute.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> are back on track as they defeated the hosts 6-3, that included a hat-trick by star Striker <a href="https://twitter.com/mandeepsingh995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mandeepsingh995</a>, powering 🇮🇳 into the Finals against New Zealand on 21st August: <a href="https://t.co/bQhZel7QSb">https://t.co/bQhZel7QSb</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadySteadyTokyo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadySteadyTokyo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvJPN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvJPN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTeamIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@weareteamindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/Q9Y9pBnOos">pic.twitter.com/Q9Y9pBnOos</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1163705165855068161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Shortly before the final whistle, India saved a penalty corner. India will play against New Zealand in the final tomorrow.

The Indian men's hockey team registered a 6-3 win over Japan in their third match of the Olympic Test Event at the Oi Hockey Stadium here on Tuesday to reach the final of the tournament.

The Indian men's hockey team registered a 6-3 win over Japan in their third match of the Olympic Test Event at the Oi Hockey Stadium here on Tuesday to reach the final of the tournament. Mandeep Singh displayed a brilliant form as he scored thrice in the game. Nilakanta Sharma found the target first through a field goal in the third minute. India were awarded a penalty corner four minutes after Sharma's goal and Nilam Sanjeep Xess made no mistake, taking lead to 2-0. Mandeep Singh did not take much time to consolidate the position as he netted in the ninth minute. Kentaro Fukuda opened the account for Japan striking in the 25th minute. However, impeccable goals by Mandeep Singh in the 29th and 30th minute took the tally to 5-1. Japan's Kenta Tanaka fought back and scored in the 36th minute. India registered their sixth goal through Gurjant Singh in the 41st minute. FT: 🇮🇳 6-3 🇯🇵 WHAT. A. WIN. After a hiccup in the previous game, #TeamIndia are back to winning ways as they book their berth in the FINALS. 💪 🇮🇳#IndiaKaGame #ReadySteadyTokyo #Tokyo2020 #INDvJPN @WeAreTeamIndia pic.twitter.com/flOg7JAJbE — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) August 20, 2019 × Japan launched an attack in the fourth quarter and succeded in the 52nd minute. #TeamIndia are back on track as they defeated the hosts 6-3, that included a hat-trick by star Striker @mandeepsingh995, powering 🇮🇳 into the Finals against New Zealand on 21st August: https://t.co/bQhZel7QSb#IndiaKaGame #ReadySteadyTokyo #Tokyo2020 #INDvJPN @weareteamindia pic.twitter.com/Q9Y9pBnOos — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) August 20, 2019 × Shortly before the final whistle, India saved a penalty corner. India will play against New Zealand in the final tomorrow.

India reaches final of Olympic Test Event after 6-3 win over Japan

The Indian men's hockey team suffered a defeat at the hands of world number eight New Zealand by 1-2 in their second match of the Olympic Test Event at the Oi Hockey Stadium here on Sunday.

Captain Harmanpreet Singh gave India the lead in the second minute by converting a penalty corner, but New Zealand struck back in the last quarter through two well-crafted field goals, which were scored by Jacob Smith (47') and Sam Lane (60').

World number five Indian side started the match with an aggressive approach and dominated possession in the opening few minutes. India won their first penalty corner in just second minute, which was beautifully converted by Harmanpreet to give his team a quick start and a 1-0 lead.

The team continued to attack and won another penalty corner in the 6th minute, but could not find the target from the execution.

It was a difficult phase for the New Zealand team as they were under constant pressure, but given their recent experience of playing in the FIH Pro League, the side defended well and avoided giving away another goal before the half-time break.

India tried to extend their lead in the initial few minutes of the third quarter through some good combination play inside New Zealand's striking circle. However, they could not find another break-through.

Harmanpreet Singh had another chance to extend his team's lead in the 42nd minute, but could only force New Zealand's goalkeeper Richard Joyce into making a good save.

The last quarter of the match saw New Zealand turn around the momentum as they started to attack the Indians on the counter. It was in the 47th minute that New Zealand worked out a good combination in the Indian half, and produced an effective attack which saw Jacob Smith find the back of the net to equalize.

The Indians were dealt with a huge blow but looked to restore their one-goal advantage in the remaining minutes.

The Indian team had some opportunities inside the last quarter but could not capitalise. With barely a minute remaining on the clock, it was New Zealand's turn to counter and their execution was perfect as they scored the winner through Sam Lane, who took advantage of India being short of players in defense.

Earlier, India registered an impressive 6-0 win against Malaysia in their opening match of the tournament.

India stands at the second spot in the points table and will play against hosts Japan on August 20.

The Indian men's hockey team suffered a defeat at the hands of world number eight New Zealand by 1-2 in their second match of the Olympic Test Event at the Oi Hockey Stadium here on Sunday.

The Indian men's hockey team suffered a defeat at the hands of world number eight New Zealand by 1-2 in their second match of the Olympic Test Event at the Oi Hockey Stadium here on Sunday. Captain Harmanpreet Singh gave India the lead in the second minute by converting a penalty corner, but New Zealand struck back in the last quarter through two well-crafted field goals, which were scored by Jacob Smith (47') and Sam Lane (60'). World number five Indian side started the match with an aggressive approach and dominated possession in the opening few minutes. India won their first penalty corner in just second minute, which was beautifully converted by Harmanpreet to give his team a quick start and a 1-0 lead. The team continued to attack and won another penalty corner in the 6th minute, but could not find the target from the execution. It was a difficult phase for the New Zealand team as they were under constant pressure, but given their recent experience of playing in the FIH Pro League, the side defended well and avoided giving away another goal before the half-time break. India tried to extend their lead in the initial few minutes of the third quarter through some good combination play inside New Zealand's striking circle. However, they could not find another break-through. Harmanpreet Singh had another chance to extend his team's lead in the 42nd minute, but could only force New Zealand's goalkeeper Richard Joyce into making a good save. The last quarter of the match saw New Zealand turn around the momentum as they started to attack the Indians on the counter. It was in the 47th minute that New Zealand worked out a good combination in the Indian half, and produced an effective attack which saw Jacob Smith find the back of the net to equalize. The Indians were dealt with a huge blow but looked to restore their one-goal advantage in the remaining minutes. The Indian team had some opportunities inside the last quarter but could not capitalise. With barely a minute remaining on the clock, it was New Zealand's turn to counter and their execution was perfect as they scored the winner through Sam Lane, who took advantage of India being short of players in defense. Earlier, India registered an impressive 6-0 win against Malaysia in their opening match of the tournament. India stands at the second spot in the points table and will play against hosts Japan on August 20.

India face 1-2 defeat against New Zealand at Olympic Test Event

The swimming section of a paratriathlon test event for Tokyo 2020 was cancelled Saturday due to high levels of bacteria in the water, the latest in a series of difficulties over water quality and temperature.

Olympic organisers have won widespread praise for their preparations but extreme summer heat and poor water quality have brought headaches at practice events, with less than a year to go until the opening ceremony.

The International Triathlon Union (ITU) shelved the swimming leg after tests showed levels of e-coli more than double the acceptable standard.

The 70 paratriathletes instead competed in a duathlon format with two runs and a bike race.

"I'm so sorry for athletes that we could not prepare the competition conditions effectively," Shinichiro Otsuka, managing director of Japan's Triathlon Union, told reporters.

"It was regrettable," he said, vowing to step up preparations for Sunday's Mixed Relay.

Former British paralympic triathlete Clare Cunningham tweeted that Saturday's decision to abridge the race was "disappointing for all".

It was the latest setback at a test event for Olympic organisers after extreme temperatures women's triathlon run was cut short due to extreme heat in the Japanese capital on Thursday, with French triathlete Cassandre Beaugrand was taken to hospital for suspected heatstroke.

Around a dozen competitors and spectators also fell ill at a rowing test event, also due to high temperatures, as Tokyo swelters through a deadly heatwave.

Competitors at a marathon swimming test event on Sunday complained of smelly water and high water temperature at Odaiba Bay, the location for long-distance swimming and triathlon.

Organisers are desperate to avoid the embarrassment of the 2016 Olympics in Rio, when the pool used for diving events turned an unsettling shade of green overnight.

Brazilian officials also had to scramble to clean up the bay used for sailing and windsurfing that was plagued by sewer bacteria and filthy with rubbish.

In October 2017, Tokyo 2020 organisers were left red-faced after tests revealed levels of e-coli bacteria more than 20 times higher than international standards, sparking doubts about the venue's safety.

At the time, the organising committee blamed prolonged summer rain that had brought pollutants from offshore for the high readings between late July and early September.

A year later, organisers said that tests using underwater "screens" to filter the water had successfully reduced bacteria levels at the venue.

"We will keep doing our best to secure a safe and sound environment for athletes towards the Games next year," Tokyo 2020 spokesman Masa Takaya said Saturday.

The swimming section of a paratriathlon test event for Tokyo 2020 was cancelled Saturday due to high levels of bacteria in the water, the latest in a series of difficulties over water quality and temperature.

The swimming section of a paratriathlon test event for Tokyo 2020 was cancelled Saturday due to high levels of bacteria in the water, the latest in a series of difficulties over water quality and temperature. Olympic organisers have won widespread praise for their preparations but extreme summer heat and poor water quality have brought headaches at practice events, with less than a year to go until the opening ceremony. The International Triathlon Union (ITU) shelved the swimming leg after tests showed levels of e-coli more than double the acceptable standard. The 70 paratriathletes instead competed in a duathlon format with two runs and a bike race. "I'm so sorry for athletes that we could not prepare the competition conditions effectively," Shinichiro Otsuka, managing director of Japan's Triathlon Union, told reporters. "It was regrettable," he said, vowing to step up preparations for Sunday's Mixed Relay. Former British paralympic triathlete Clare Cunningham tweeted that Saturday's decision to abridge the race was "disappointing for all". It was the latest setback at a test event for Olympic organisers after extreme temperatures women's triathlon run was cut short due to extreme heat in the Japanese capital on Thursday, with French triathlete Cassandre Beaugrand was taken to hospital for suspected heatstroke. Around a dozen competitors and spectators also fell ill at a rowing test event, also due to high temperatures, as Tokyo swelters through a deadly heatwave. Competitors at a marathon swimming test event on Sunday complained of smelly water and high water temperature at Odaiba Bay, the location for long-distance swimming and triathlon. Organisers are desperate to avoid the embarrassment of the 2016 Olympics in Rio, when the pool used for diving events turned an unsettling shade of green overnight. Brazilian officials also had to scramble to clean up the bay used for sailing and windsurfing that was plagued by sewer bacteria and filthy with rubbish. In October 2017, Tokyo 2020 organisers were left red-faced after tests revealed levels of e-coli bacteria more than 20 times higher than international standards, sparking doubts about the venue's safety. At the time, the organising committee blamed prolonged summer rain that had brought pollutants from offshore for the high readings between late July and early September. A year later, organisers said that tests using underwater "screens" to filter the water had successfully reduced bacteria levels at the venue. "We will keep doing our best to secure a safe and sound environment for athletes towards the Games next year," Tokyo 2020 spokesman Masa Takaya said Saturday.

Water bacteria cancels Tokyo 2020 paratriathlon test swim

Many of the world's top triathletes battled the heat and humidity in Tokyo on Friday (August 16) at the International Triathlon Union (ITU) Olympic qualifying race, which doubled as a test event for the Games.

Triathletes happy to survive battle with humidity at Tokyo 2020 test event

A worker at a Tokyo 2020 Olympics construction site has collapsed and died, organisers said, reportedly of heatstroke as the Japanese capital swelters through a blistering heatwave.

The 50-year-old man was found lying on the ground under a scorching sun on Thursday afternoon at the site where he had been laying electric cables.

He was rushed to hospital but later confirmed dead, according to Tokyo 2020 organisers on Friday.

Organisers said the cause of death has not been officially established but several local media cited police as saying they suspect heatstroke. Police were unable to confirm the reports immediately.

The death is the third related to Tokyo Olympics construction works after one suicide from overwork stress and another killed in an accident.

Tokyo's hot and humid summer weather is a major concern for Olympic organisers, particularly after a heatwave that engulfed the city last year.

After a long rainy season this year, the Japanese capital has again been hit by a deadly heatwave. Last week more than 18,000 people had been hospitalised nationwide due to the weather with 57 dying.

Organisers have come up with a variety of cooling methods ranging from misting sprays and fans, to potted flower fences that organisers say help "psychologically" cool those around.

They have also moved up the starting times for some sports, including the marathon, over fears for athletes' wellbeing.

A worker at a Tokyo 2020 Olympics construction site has collapsed and died, organisers said, reportedly of heatstroke as the Japanese capital swelters through a blistering heatwave.

A worker at a Tokyo 2020 Olympics construction site has collapsed and died, organisers said, reportedly of heatstroke as the Japanese capital swelters through a blistering heatwave. The 50-year-old man was found lying on the ground under a scorching sun on Thursday afternoon at the site where he had been laying electric cables. He was rushed to hospital but later confirmed dead, according to Tokyo 2020 organisers on Friday. Organisers said the cause of death has not been officially established but several local media cited police as saying they suspect heatstroke. Police were unable to confirm the reports immediately. The death is the third related to Tokyo Olympics construction works after one suicide from overwork stress and another killed in an accident. Tokyo's hot and humid summer weather is a major concern for Olympic organisers, particularly after a heatwave that engulfed the city last year. After a long rainy season this year, the Japanese capital has again been hit by a deadly heatwave. Last week more than 18,000 people had been hospitalised nationwide due to the weather with 57 dying. Organisers have come up with a variety of cooling methods ranging from misting sprays and fans, to potted flower fences that organisers say help "psychologically" cool those around. They have also moved up the starting times for some sports, including the marathon, over fears for athletes' wellbeing.

Tokyo 2020 construction worker dies, heatstroke suspected

With temperatures rising to 35 degrees Celsius and humidity of 75% on Thursday, Tokyo 2020 organisers had the perfect weather to try out their heat countermeasures and preparedness for next year's Olympics at the beach volleyball test event. Although it has been less hot this year, a record heatwave in July 2018, killed over a dozen people in Tokyo with monthly average temperatures transcending 30 degrees for the first time in 20 years. Tokyo 2020 organisers will employ wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) measuring devices at all venues as a step in their readiness for high temperatures.

Olympics organisers test heat countermeasures in sweltering Tokyo

The medals for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics were unveiled on Wednesday with exactly one year to go until next year's Games.

Tokyo 2020 medals unveiled

The archery venue for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games was officially unveiled on Sunday (April 28), becoming the first of the Games' new venues to be completed. Yumenoshima Park Archery Field, located on a former landfill site, was set for completion in May.

Tokyo 2020 archery venue unveiled

Fields of dreams: Tokyo 2020's major sites

All the venues for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=2020+Olympic">Tokyo 2020 Olympic</a> and Paralympic Games will be 100 per cent smoke-free, the organisers said on Thursday.&nbsp;

The ruling is part of dramatic changes taking place in Japan, which lags many countries in efforts to fight smoking, with attempts to tackle tobacco often stymied by pro-smoking politicians, restaurateurs and Japan Tobacco, which is one-third owned by the government.&nbsp;

At most sporting venues in Japan, there are designated areas for smokers to use but this will not be the case at Tokyo 2020.&nbsp;

"Based on the development of the law and regulations and guidance from the IOC, Tokyo 2020 has decided to adopt a stricter non-smoking policy to protect the health and safety of athletes, spectators and officials," the organisers said in a statement.

"(Tokyo 2020) will ban smoking in indoor venues, outdoor venues and in venues’ secure perimeters operated by Tokyo 2020 – a similar policy to that enacted during the Olympic Winter Games&nbsp;PyeongChang 2018."

"Tokyo 2020 aims to leave a legacy of improved public health for the country at large."

Unlike at London 2012 and Rio 2016, there will not even be designated smoking areas outside of venues as Tokyo pushes to improve its image as one of the smokiest cities in the developed world.

Less than a fifth of Japanese smoke today, down from about half the population 50 years ago yet activists say about 15,000 Japanese, many of them women and children, die from passive smoking every year.

Changes in Japan are slowly being made.

In 2018, Japan’s parliament passed a watered-down version of a health ministry proposal to limit secondhand smoke, which allows smoking in more places than the original proposal, including in roughly half of eateries.

A stricter bill passed by Tokyo that will come into effect next year will make more than 80 per cent of eateries smoke-free.

Smoking is banned in schools and hospitals, but they can provide outdoor smoking spaces. Japan's Health Ministry removed its last cigarette vending machine in 2018.

All the venues for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be 100 per cent smoke-free, the organisers said on Thursday. The ruling is part of dramatic changes taking place in Japan, which lags many countries in efforts to fight smoking, with attempts to tackle tobacco often stymied by pro-smoking politicians, restaurateurs and Japan Tobacco, which is one-third owned by the government.

All the venues for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be 100 per cent smoke-free, the organisers said on Thursday. The ruling is part of dramatic changes taking place in Japan, which lags many countries in efforts to fight smoking, with attempts to tackle tobacco often stymied by pro-smoking politicians, restaurateurs and Japan Tobacco, which is one-third owned by the government. At most sporting venues in Japan, there are designated areas for smokers to use but this will not be the case at Tokyo 2020. "Based on the development of the law and regulations and guidance from the IOC, Tokyo 2020 has decided to adopt a stricter non-smoking policy to protect the health and safety of athletes, spectators and officials," the organisers said in a statement. "(Tokyo 2020) will ban smoking in indoor venues, outdoor venues and in venues’ secure perimeters operated by Tokyo 2020 – a similar policy to that enacted during the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018." "Tokyo 2020 aims to leave a legacy of improved public health for the country at large." Unlike at London 2012 and Rio 2016, there will not even be designated smoking areas outside of venues as Tokyo pushes to improve its image as one of the smokiest cities in the developed world. Less than a fifth of Japanese smoke today, down from about half the population 50 years ago yet activists say about 15,000 Japanese, many of them women and children, die from passive smoking every year. Changes in Japan are slowly being made. In 2018, Japan’s parliament passed a watered-down version of a health ministry proposal to limit secondhand smoke, which allows smoking in more places than the original proposal, including in roughly half of eateries. A stricter bill passed by Tokyo that will come into effect next year will make more than 80 per cent of eateries smoke-free. Smoking is banned in schools and hospitals, but they can provide outdoor smoking spaces. Japan's Health Ministry removed its last cigarette vending machine in 2018.

Tokyo 2020 venues to be 100 % smoke-free: Organisers

16-year-old Indian shooter Saurabh Chaudhary Sunday won the gold medal&nbsp;in the 10mm air pistol after shooting a world record score of 245.0 in the final at the ISSF New Delhi Shooting World Cup.&nbsp;

By virtue of this win, Chaudhary has sealed a berth for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, his top-two finish earning him one of two quota places available for an event for a country.

This was Chaudhary's first World Cup medal at the senior level, that too in his first such tournament. Last year, he won the 10m air pistol gold at the Asian Games -- his first international tournament at the senior level.

In 2018, Chaudhary also won gold at the Junior World Cup in Suhl, Germany, in addition to being crowned junior world champion and Youth Olympic champion.&nbsp;

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India's tally at the World Cup is now up to two gold medals, with Apurvi Chandela also shooting a world record score en route to winning gold in the women's 10m air rifle category on Saturday.

16-year-old Indian shooter Saurabh Chaudhary Sunday won the gold medal in the 10mm air pistol after shooting a world record score of 245.0 in the final at the ISSF New Delhi Shooting World Cup.

16-year-old Indian shooter Saurabh Chaudhary Sunday won the gold medal in the 10mm air pistol after shooting a world record score of 245.0 in the final at the ISSF New Delhi Shooting World Cup. By virtue of this win, Chaudhary has sealed a berth for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, his top-two finish earning him one of two quota places available for an event for a country. This was Chaudhary's first World Cup medal at the senior level, that too in his first such tournament. Last year, he won the 10m air pistol gold at the Asian Games -- his first international tournament at the senior level. In 2018, Chaudhary also won gold at the Junior World Cup in Suhl, Germany, in addition to being crowned junior world champion and Youth Olympic champion. Another gold for India 🇮🇳 in New Delhi! #ISSFWC pic.twitter.com/icYGfLPMKT — ISSF (@ISSF_Shooting) February 24, 2019 × India's tally at the World Cup is now up to two gold medals, with Apurvi Chandela also shooting a world record score en route to winning gold in the women's 10m air rifle category on Saturday.

ISSF Shooting World Cup: 16-year-old Saurabh Chaudhary wins gold, seals Tokyo 2020 berth

The 2020 Olympics can "usher in a new Tokyo" and, along with this year's Rugby World Cup, leave behind a legacy similar to that of the 1964 Summer Games, the city's Governor Yuriko Koike said on Monday.

"These two major events will serve as a springboard to transform our city," said Koike.

"This year, 2019, will be key in making those Games a success and ushering in a new Tokyo.

"But the metric for success will not be limited to just the competition itself; we want to lead Japan beyond 2020, change the way Tokyo thinks and transform our society."

The last time Tokyo hosted the Olympics in 1964, the Games provided the city with the opportunity for a rebranding, shaking off a war-ravaged reputation and showing a modern face to the world.

A building boom transformed Tokyo prior to those Games, the high-speed Shinkansen train began to run, and a growing middle class snapped up refrigerators and other appliances, including televisions to watch the Games.

This time, the legacy may be more of an intangible nature.

"The previous Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in 1964 left a legacy of urban infrastructure, like the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway and the Shinkansen bullet train network," said Koike, a former defence and environment minister.

"I intend for the Tokyo 2020 Games to leave a more intangible legacy. I also intend for the 2020 Games to leave a cultural legacy and for the Games themselves to be a celebration of culture."

Koike is focusing on making Tokyo more diverse and has also pushed for a swathe of environmental programs in order to rebrand the city as a leader in the fight against climate change.

She also sees the Paralympics as a chance to make Tokyo, notoriously difficult to navigate for citizens and visitors with disabilities, more accessible.

"I believe that the Paralympics, in particular, will be a key event that determines the success of the Tokyo 2020 Games," said Koike.

"This will be the first time that a city has hosted it's second summer Paralympics and as the city with that honour, Tokyo aims to lead the country in strengthening barrier-free standards in lodging facilities."

One of the recent regulations implemented by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is the 'Open Stay Tokyo' project, which looks to increase the width of doors and corridors within hotels to accommodate wheelchair uses.

The Tokyo Olympics open on July 24 next year.

The 2020 Olympics can "usher in a new Tokyo" and, along with this year's Rugby World Cup, leave behind a legacy similar to that of the 1964 Summer Games, the city's Governor Yuriko Koike said on Monday.

The 2020 Olympics can "usher in a new Tokyo" and, along with this year's Rugby World Cup, leave behind a legacy similar to that of the 1964 Summer Games, the city's Governor Yuriko Koike said on Monday. "These two major events will serve as a springboard to transform our city," said Koike. "This year, 2019, will be key in making those Games a success and ushering in a new Tokyo. "But the metric for success will not be limited to just the competition itself; we want to lead Japan beyond 2020, change the way Tokyo thinks and transform our society." The last time Tokyo hosted the Olympics in 1964, the Games provided the city with the opportunity for a rebranding, shaking off a war-ravaged reputation and showing a modern face to the world. A building boom transformed Tokyo prior to those Games, the high-speed Shinkansen train began to run, and a growing middle class snapped up refrigerators and other appliances, including televisions to watch the Games. This time, the legacy may be more of an intangible nature. "The previous Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in 1964 left a legacy of urban infrastructure, like the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway and the Shinkansen bullet train network," said Koike, a former defence and environment minister. "I intend for the Tokyo 2020 Games to leave a more intangible legacy. I also intend for the 2020 Games to leave a cultural legacy and for the Games themselves to be a celebration of culture." Koike is focusing on making Tokyo more diverse and has also pushed for a swathe of environmental programs in order to rebrand the city as a leader in the fight against climate change. She also sees the Paralympics as a chance to make Tokyo, notoriously difficult to navigate for citizens and visitors with disabilities, more accessible. "I believe that the Paralympics, in particular, will be a key event that determines the success of the Tokyo 2020 Games," said Koike. "This will be the first time that a city has hosted it's second summer Paralympics and as the city with that honour, Tokyo aims to lead the country in strengthening barrier-free standards in lodging facilities." One of the recent regulations implemented by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is the 'Open Stay Tokyo' project, which looks to increase the width of doors and corridors within hotels to accommodate wheelchair uses. The Tokyo Olympics open on July 24 next year.

2020 Olympic Games can be springboard to transform Tokyo

North Korea and South Korea are interested in a joint march at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics as well as fielding some unified teams in different sports, the president of the International Olympic Committee said on Friday.&nbsp;

South and North Korean officials met with the IOC in Lausanne, buoyed by the role the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics played in easing tensions between the two countries.&nbsp;

The two nations had marched together at the opening ceremony in Pyeongchang for the first time since the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. They had also fielded a unified women's ice hockey team.&nbsp;

"Following the bilateral conversations we had yesterday, we are taking note that both are very much interested in having some joined actions in the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 with a joined march and some unified teams in different sports," IOC President Thomas Bach said at the start of the meeting.&nbsp;

Among the points of discussion at the Lausanne meeting was a potential 2032 Summer Olympics joint bid by North and South Korea, and Bach said both countries had expressed interest in proceeding.&nbsp;

"We think this is a great symbol of the Olympic spirit. It is a great symbol again of the unifying power of the Olympic Games," Bach said.&nbsp;

Relations between the nations greatly improved last year, with South Korean President Moon Jae-in meeting his North Korean counterpart Kim Jong Un at three different summits.&nbsp;

North Korea has for years pursued nuclear and missile programs in defiance of U.N. sanctions but the neighbours moved to thaw relations in 2018.&nbsp;

North Korea and South Korea are interested in a joint march at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics as well as fielding some unified teams in different sports, the president of the International Olympic Committee said on Friday.

North Korea and South Korea are interested in a joint march at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics as well as fielding some unified teams in different sports, the president of the International Olympic Committee said on Friday. South and North Korean officials met with the IOC in Lausanne, buoyed by the role the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics played in easing tensions between the two countries. The two nations had marched together at the opening ceremony in Pyeongchang for the first time since the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. They had also fielded a unified women's ice hockey team. "Following the bilateral conversations we had yesterday, we are taking note that both are very much interested in having some joined actions in the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 with a joined march and some unified teams in different sports," IOC President Thomas Bach said at the start of the meeting. Among the points of discussion at the Lausanne meeting was a potential 2032 Summer Olympics joint bid by North and South Korea, and Bach said both countries had expressed interest in proceeding. "We think this is a great symbol of the Olympic spirit. It is a great symbol again of the unifying power of the Olympic Games," Bach said. Relations between the nations greatly improved last year, with South Korean President Moon Jae-in meeting his North Korean counterpart Kim Jong Un at three different summits. North Korea has for years pursued nuclear and missile programs in defiance of U.N. sanctions but the neighbours moved to thaw relations in 2018.

North, South Korea eye joint march, some unified teams for Tokyo 2020

Tokyo 2020 organisers on Thursday unveiled plans for a centre to monitor extreme weather, after concerns the city's scorching summer could cause heatstroke or even deaths during the Games.

The next Olympics will also overlap with Japan's typhoon season, and the potential for extreme conditions has become a major headache for the event after a string of weather-related disasters.

Organisers will work with a private weather company and the government's meteorological agency to analyse climate data in areas with Olympic venues, a Tokyo 2020 official told AFP.

The centre will send warnings about weather-related emergencies, including the risk of heatstroke and even evacuation information if necessary, she added.

Last year Japan was rocked by a number of weather emergencies, including record rainfall in the west of the country that killed more than 200 people.

A deadly heatwave also gripped the country during the summer, raising concerns about outdoor events during the Games, particularly the marathon.

Japanese medical groups have warned the event could "lead to deaths" from heatstroke.

In December, Tokyo 2020 officials announced they would move up the start of the marathon to "between 5:30am and 6am." They had previously moved it up to 7am.

Organisers have toyed with various ways of beating the heat including the introduction of daylight saving time -- an idea that appears to have fallen by the wayside.

Last time Japan hosted the Olympics, in 1964, the competition was held in October to avoid the hot summer conditions.

Tokyo 2020 organisers on Thursday unveiled plans for a centre to monitor extreme weather, after concerns the city's scorching summer could cause heatstroke or even deaths during the Games.

Tokyo 2020 organisers on Thursday unveiled plans for a centre to monitor extreme weather, after concerns the city's scorching summer could cause heatstroke or even deaths during the Games. The next Olympics will also overlap with Japan's typhoon season, and the potential for extreme conditions has become a major headache for the event after a string of weather-related disasters. Organisers will work with a private weather company and the government's meteorological agency to analyse climate data in areas with Olympic venues, a Tokyo 2020 official told AFP. The centre will send warnings about weather-related emergencies, including the risk of heatstroke and even evacuation information if necessary, she added. Last year Japan was rocked by a number of weather emergencies, including record rainfall in the west of the country that killed more than 200 people. A deadly heatwave also gripped the country during the summer, raising concerns about outdoor events during the Games, particularly the marathon. Japanese medical groups have warned the event could "lead to deaths" from heatstroke. In December, Tokyo 2020 officials announced they would move up the start of the marathon to "between 5:30am and 6am." They had previously moved it up to 7am. Organisers have toyed with various ways of beating the heat including the introduction of daylight saving time -- an idea that appears to have fallen by the wayside. Last time Japan hosted the Olympics, in 1964, the competition was held in October to avoid the hot summer conditions.

Tokyo 2020 plans weather monitoring after heatstroke fears

The possibility of extreme summer heat and typhoons in Tokyo is a "major issue" for the 2020 Olympics, a top official said Thursday, admitting there would be a knock-on effect on the budget.

Speaking to bosses from Olympic Committees around the world, Tokyo CEO Toshiro Muto said the Japanese capital had endured "unprecedented heat weather and typhoons last summer."

"Tokyo 2020 considers those as major issues," said Muto, adding that organisers and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) were working together on ways to mitigate the impact on athletes and fans.

IOC chief Thomas Bach said on Wednesday that medical experts were proposing measures to protect competitors and supporters throughout the Games.

Tokyo sweltered through a series of deadly heatwaves last summer, raising concerns for the wellbeing of athletes, especially competitors of endurance events such as the marathon and race walking.

Organisers have already brought forward the marathon start time to 7am to get cooler conditions but officials are considering bringing the event even further forward.

Japanese medical groups have suggested that failure to start the marathon earlier could "lead to deaths" from heatstroke.

When Japan last hosted the Olympics, in 1964, the Games were held in October to avoid the country's stifling summer humidity and heat.

Muto said he would transmit weather data to national Olympic Committees to help their athletes prepare for the conditions they are likely to face.

Speaking to reporters afterwards, Muto acknowledged that measures to beat the heat had increased demands on the budget.

Organisers plan countermeasures from solar-blocking paint on roads to mobile misting stations.

The CEO said that while the heat countermeasures could boost the budget, Tokyo 2020 had been able to make cuts in other areas.

Tokyo 2020 was "absolutely determined" that the next version of the budget, due to be unveiled next month, would not exceed the $12.6 billion earmarked last year to pay for the Games, Muto said.

The CEO laid out a rosy picture of preparations for the Games, with just more than 600 days to go until the Opening Ceremony.

"Venue construction is on track and will be completed in time for the test events," which will take place in the run-up to the Games.

IOC chief Thomas Bach said Wednesday: "I do not remember any host city which was so far in its preparations two years before the Olympic Games than Tokyo."

The possibility of extreme summer heat and typhoons in Tokyo is a "major issue" for the 2020 Olympics, a top official said Thursday, admitting there would be a knock-on effect on the budget.

The possibility of extreme summer heat and typhoons in Tokyo is a "major issue" for the 2020 Olympics, a top official said Thursday, admitting there would be a knock-on effect on the budget. Speaking to bosses from Olympic Committees around the world, Tokyo CEO Toshiro Muto said the Japanese capital had endured "unprecedented heat weather and typhoons last summer." "Tokyo 2020 considers those as major issues," said Muto, adding that organisers and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) were working together on ways to mitigate the impact on athletes and fans. IOC chief Thomas Bach said on Wednesday that medical experts were proposing measures to protect competitors and supporters throughout the Games. Tokyo sweltered through a series of deadly heatwaves last summer, raising concerns for the wellbeing of athletes, especially competitors of endurance events such as the marathon and race walking. Organisers have already brought forward the marathon start time to 7am to get cooler conditions but officials are considering bringing the event even further forward. Japanese medical groups have suggested that failure to start the marathon earlier could "lead to deaths" from heatstroke. When Japan last hosted the Olympics, in 1964, the Games were held in October to avoid the country's stifling summer humidity and heat. Muto said he would transmit weather data to national Olympic Committees to help their athletes prepare for the conditions they are likely to face. Speaking to reporters afterwards, Muto acknowledged that measures to beat the heat had increased demands on the budget. Organisers plan countermeasures from solar-blocking paint on roads to mobile misting stations. The CEO said that while the heat countermeasures could boost the budget, Tokyo 2020 had been able to make cuts in other areas. Tokyo 2020 was "absolutely determined" that the next version of the budget, due to be unveiled next month, would not exceed the $12.6 billion earmarked last year to pay for the Games, Muto said. The CEO laid out a rosy picture of preparations for the Games, with just more than 600 days to go until the Opening Ceremony. "Venue construction is on track and will be completed in time for the test events," which will take place in the run-up to the Games. IOC chief Thomas Bach said Wednesday: "I do not remember any host city which was so far in its preparations two years before the Olympic Games than Tokyo."

Extreme weather 'major' issue for Tokyo 2020

The newly-formed refugee team competing at this year&#39;s Olympics was one of the highlights in Rio de Janeiro but it is not clear if it will compete at the 2020 Games in Tokyo, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Tuesday.

The IOC unveiled its first team of refugees in June in an effort to raise awareness of the issue and it was one of the feel-good stories of the Rio Olympics.

But it has yet to decide whether to send another refugee team to Tokyo in four years time.

&quot;We will see. The team in Rio was to remind the world of the situation (of refugees),&quot; Pere Miro, the IOC&#39;s Deputy Director General for Relations with the Olympic Movement, told reporters.

&quot;(For Tokyo) this has not yet been decided. To have a team in Rio was not an objective in itself but a means to put this problem to the world,&quot; Miro said. &quot;We will now go step by step.&quot;

The 10-member refugee team, hand-picked by the IOC, hogged the spotlight after marching as the penultimate team before hosts Brazil in the Opening Ceremony at the Olympic stadium on Aug. 5.

More than a million refugees streamed into Europe in the past year alone as they fled fighting in Syria and other countries.

Millions more are housed in camps in countries across the world, having escaped dozens of wars or armed conflicts in their home nations.

The Refugee Olympic Team (ROT) included five athletes from South Sudan, two from Syria, two from Democratic Republic of Congo and one from Ethiopia.

Miro said although a decision on Tokyo had yet to be taken, all national Olympic committees had been tasked with locating any potential Olympians among refugees living in their countries.

As for the 10 refugees who took part in Rio, Miro said the IOC would continue supporting them in their quest for sporting achievement or just a normal life away from war and violence.

&quot;We have not abandoned the 10 athletes,&quot; he said. &quot;We continue working with them. We have the duty to continue working with them.&quot;

(Reuters)

The IOC unveiled its first team of refugees in June in an effort to raise awareness of the issue

The newly-formed refugee team competing at this year's Olympics was one of the highlights in Rio de Janeiro but it is not clear if it will compete at the 2020 Games in Tokyo, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Tuesday. The IOC unveiled its first team of refugees in June in an effort to raise awareness of the issue and it was one of the feel-good stories of the Rio Olympics. But it has yet to decide whether to send another refugee team to Tokyo in four years time. "We will see. The team in Rio was to remind the world of the situation (of refugees)," Pere Miro, the IOC's Deputy Director General for Relations with the Olympic Movement, told reporters. "(For Tokyo) this has not yet been decided. To have a team in Rio was not an objective in itself but a means to put this problem to the world," Miro said. "We will now go step by step." The 10-member refugee team, hand-picked by the IOC, hogged the spotlight after marching as the penultimate team before hosts Brazil in the Opening Ceremony at the Olympic stadium on Aug. 5. More than a million refugees streamed into Europe in the past year alone as they fled fighting in Syria and other countries. Millions more are housed in camps in countries across the world, having escaped dozens of wars or armed conflicts in their home nations. The Refugee Olympic Team (ROT) included five athletes from South Sudan, two from Syria, two from Democratic Republic of Congo and one from Ethiopia. Miro said although a decision on Tokyo had yet to be taken, all national Olympic committees had been tasked with locating any potential Olympians among refugees living in their countries. As for the 10 refugees who took part in Rio, Miro said the IOC would continue supporting them in their quest for sporting achievement or just a normal life away from war and violence. "We have not abandoned the 10 athletes," he said. "We continue working with them. We have the duty to continue working with them." (Reuters)

IOC undecided over refugee team for Tokyo 2020 Games

The Olympic flag arrived in Tokyo on Wednesday as Japan&#39;s capital gears up to host the 2020 Games. Officials have promised smoother organisation of Games after Rio. 
 
Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike on Sunday received the flag at the closing ceremony in Rio and carried it on Wednesday at a ceremony at Tokyo&#39;s Haneda airport.&nbsp;&quot;I&#39;m very happy that we&#39;re able to bring the flag back after more than 50 years,&quot; Koike said. 
 
The city had hosted the summer Olympics in 1964. 
 
Japan&#39;s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, dressed as Nintendo video game character Super Mario at the ceremony, said,&nbsp;&quot;I want to show Japan&#39;s soft power to the world with the help of Japanese characters.&quot; 
 
Meanwhile, French prosecutors have launched an investigation into alleged bribes linked to Tokyo&#39;s winning Olympic bid, which organisers have denied. 
 
The Games were awarded to Tokyo in 2013, with the city touting itself as &quot;peaceful, reliable, safe, and stable&quot;. 
 
The games in Brazil -- which is embroiled in a political crisis over the impeachment of suspended president Dilma Rousseff -- suffered its own series of setbacks. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Games were awarded to Tokyo in 2013, given the city's 'peaceful, reliable, safe, and stable' claim

The Olympic flag arrived in Tokyo on Wednesday as Japan's capital gears up to host the 2020 Games. Officials have promised smoother organisation of Games after Rio. Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike on Sunday received the flag at the closing ceremony in Rio and carried it on Wednesday at a ceremony at Tokyo's Haneda airport. "I'm very happy that we're able to bring the flag back after more than 50 years," Koike said. The city had hosted the summer Olympics in 1964. Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, dressed as Nintendo video game character Super Mario at the ceremony, said, "I want to show Japan's soft power to the world with the help of Japanese characters." Meanwhile, French prosecutors have launched an investigation into alleged bribes linked to Tokyo's winning Olympic bid, which organisers have denied. The Games were awarded to Tokyo in 2013, with the city touting itself as "peaceful, reliable, safe, and stable". The games in Brazil -- which is embroiled in a political crisis over the impeachment of suspended president Dilma Rousseff -- suffered its own series of setbacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Olympic flag arrives in Tokyo for 2020 Games

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