The orienteering events at the 25th Summer Deaflympics in Tokyo concluded in November, showcasing a spectacular display of navigation skills across two contrasting terrains.
While the competition saw athletes from around the world tackle six medal events, the headlines belonged to the formidable Ukrainian team, whose dominance was on full display in front of enthusiastic crowds and distinguished Imperial guests.
Urban Sprints in the Heart of the City
The competition opened with high-speed action in the center of the Japanese capital. Hibiya Park, an urban oasis surrounded by skyscrapers, hosted the Sprint, Mixed Sprint Relay, and Mixed Super Sprint Relay. The intricate park layout demanded split-second decision-making, providing a thrilling spectacle for spectators.
On the second day of the competition, the atmosphere in Hibiya Park was elevated by the presence of Her Imperial Highness Crown Princess Kiko. A known supporter of disability sports, the Crown Princess watched the dynamic relay races, setting a tone of celebration and inclusion for the Games.
Battling the Volcano on Izu Oshima
Following the urban stages, the focus shifted to Izu Oshima, a remote island renowned for its active volcano, Mt. Mihara. The Middle Distance, Long Distance, and Relay events were held in the “Ura-Sabaku” area—Japan’s only desert.
Athletes faced a grueling test of physical endurance and technical precision on the open, moon-like terrain formed by the lava flows. The black volcanic soil and complex contours of the open terrain offered a stark contrast to the park races, challenging runners to maintain their focus amidst the dramatic scenery.
Ukraine’s Golden Performance
Throughout the week, the Ukrainian national team proved to be an unstoppable force of the championships. Their athletes consistently outpaced their rivals in both the physical challenges in the volcanic terrain and the technical navigation of the urban sprints.
Nazar Levytskyi and Volodymyr Fedoseienko were among the standouts, securing victories that underscored the nation’s depth of talent. Whether in individual sprints or team relays, the yellow and blue kits of Ukraine were a constant fixture on the podium, earning them the top spot in the orienteering medal table.
Royal Cheers on the Final Day
The climax of the orienteering programme was marked by a special visit from the Imperial Family. On the final day of the Izu Oshima race, Crown Princess Kiko returned, accompanied by her son, His Imperial Highness Prince Hisahito.
The royal guests watched the relay events intensely from the finish arena. In a heartwarming moment that highlighted the spirit of the Deaflympics, both Crown Princess Kiko and Prince Hisahito were seen cheering for the athletes using Sign Language. Their engaged support provided a memorable finale to a historic week for deaf orienteering sports in Japan.
Deaflympics Orienteering Results
GPS-tracking
Partnership between IOF and ICSD
Furthermore, the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) and the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD), which organises the Deaflympics, have formally established a partnership to strengthen inclusivity and cooperation in international sport.
Read the article from end of October on the partnership
AloJapan.com