POSTED: July 9th 2009
Appointments
Tokyo 2016 comedian runs bid through New York City
LAURA WALDEN / Sports Features Communications
TAMPA: Tokyo 2016 ambassador Kanpei Hazama arrived in New York City of the third leg of his Earth Marathon spreading the word about the Japanese bid for the summer Games.
One of Japan’s favourite comedians is an experienced runner and sailor and has participated in more than 70 marathons and ultra marathons, including the renowned Honolulu Marathon in Hawaii, the 246km Spartathrone race in Greece and the 560km Tokyo-Osaka event.
He is on a mission to spread the word about the Tokyo 2016 bid by literally running it himself around the world in person.
Hazama said,“I’ve finally made it to New York City more than seven months after beginning my journey. I’ve really enjoyed my run across the United States, even though it’s been very tough.
“I never imagined so many people would turn out to welcome me. Everyone, but especially the children, have really lifted my spirits and inspired me to continue with my challenging journey. Thanks to everyone’s continued support, I am determined to complete my Earth Marathon without fail.”
Nippon TV has been reporting his adventure to millions of Japanese followers back home as he has supported the bid over 36,000km (23,000 miles) - serious dedication to a bid city.
Hazama has made friends all over America during his four month marathon even visiting Chicago 2016 to shake hands and greet Patrick Ryan chairman of the opposing bid in a rare show of friendship between two bid cities.
Bid chairman Dr Ichiro Kono said: “Tokyo 2016, all of Japan and countless people around the world have been inspired by Kanpei Hazama’s infectious positivity and unwavering commitment - traits that have served him well as step after step, mile after mile he remains firmly focused on completing this incredible test of endurance.
“Kanpei is spreading international goodwill and inspiring people around the world to engage with sport in friendship. Neither the Olympic Movement, nor our Bid could wish for a better ambassador, and we are proud that Tokyo 2016 is setting the stage for generations of heroes inspired by the likes of Kanpei.”
Hazama sails next to Europe, to Le Havre, France, from where he will journey across the continent to Copenhagen.
He is set to run the marathon to meet the members of the bid in time for the decisive vote at the IOC Session on October 2 in the Danish capital. Tokyo is running against Chicago, Madrid, and Rio de Janeiro.
Keywords · Tokyo 2016 · Olympic Bids · Kanpei Hazama · Ichiro Kono · New York City
For more information contact:
Laura Walden ()
All original materials contained in this section are protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published or broadcast without the prior written permission of Sports Features Communications, Inc the owner of that content. It is prohibited to alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content.
