Released 23/08/2021
Today marks 100 days to go until the rescheduled Tokyo Olympic Games. Athletes here in Canberra have worked exceptionally hard over the past 12 months to stay focused on their Olympic journey, and we look forward to cheering them on when the Games begin on 23 July.
The ACT Government will provide $300,000 to support these athletes including $100,000 for 32 local athletes under the ACT Training Assistance Program, and $100,000 each for the Australian Olympic Team and Paralympics Australia Team appeals.
Due to the pandemic, the Tokyo Olympic Games were rescheduled by exactly one year, with the new dates set for 23 July to 8 August 2021 (Olympic Games) and 24 August to 5 September 2021 (Paralympic Games).
While there has been some uncertainty that the Games would go ahead in 2021, every day comes with a bit more confidence that we will be cheering on Canberra athletes in just 100 days’ time.
It’s great to announce that 32 Canberra athletes will receive funding under the ACT Training Assistance Program to help focus on their training and qualify for the Games. This funding is vitally important as it helps athletes meet increased training and competition costs in the lead up to Tokyo, which includes travel, training and equipment costs, as well as additional coaching.
19 of the 32 athletes will receive Training Assistance are women, while athletes that are working towards representing Canberra in Tokyo come from a range of sports, including cycling, skateboarding, para-athletics, para-rowing and softball.
Best of luck to all the athletes as they continue to train, qualify and prepare for the Tokyo Olympic Games.
Quotes attributable to Softball Australia – Open Women’s Squad Member, Clare Warwick:
“It is great to be back on track for Tokyo and with 100 days to go, training is ramping up.
“The ACT Government support through the Training Assistance Program will really help me to focus on and get the most of out of my training and preparation so that I am ready to perform in Japan”.
*All quotes attributable to Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry*
- Statement ends -
Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases