Torch Relay Runner Withdraws Over Mori Remark
A runner for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic torch relay has withdrawn from the event over an apparently sexist remark by the head of the Games' organizing committee, Mori Yoshiro.
On Tuesday, Tsubokura Shinji, who's 57, received an email from the committee apologizing for Mori's remark. Tsubokura sent a reply saying he will not take part in the relay.
Last Wednesday, while referring to the Japanese Olympic Committee's plan to increase the number of women on its board, Mori said board meetings with women take too long because they talk too much. Facing criticism, Mori apologized and retracted his remark the next day.
The relay is due to start in Fukushima Prefecture on March 25. Tsubokura was to run through his community, Miyakoji District of Tamura City on March 27. Residents of the district had to evacuate after the 2011 nuclear accident in Fukushima.
Tsubokura had applied for the event, saying he wanted to help boost the district.
He told NHK that the organizing committee and the government appear to be defending Mori, and that this is unacceptable to the international community.
Tsubokura said he had been looking forward to running in the relay but that he offered to withdraw to change Japan's mindset even if it meant giving up on his dream.