Japanese boxer nurse opens the Olympics

This Japanese nurse and boxer performed at the Olympics

Arisa Tsubata ran solo on a treadmill at the opening ceremony

to show how athletes prepared for the Games in isolation

(SOUNDBITE) (Japanese) NURSE AND BOXER, ARISA TSUBATA, SAYING:

"Not just the athletes, but many people had spent the past year struggling with many things, as I've seen through the news. I prepared the performance with the hope that it will help people to move forward even a little bit."

Tsubata did not qualify for the Tokyo Olympics

(SOUNDBITE) (Japanese) NURSE AND BOXER ARISA TSUBATA SAYING:

"This year, I participated in the Olympic Games as a performer, but I've come to feel more strongly about wanting to participate in the Olympics as an athlete next time."