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."