The British Embassy Tokyo held a special event to mark 1000 days to go to the start of the London 2012 Olympic Games, to be followed by the Paralympic Games. 

Welcoming some 90 Japanese and British fun-runners, Ambassador David Warren gave a brief speech before unveiling the count down clock in the presence of three special guests – Ms Akemi Ozaki and Mara Yamauchi (a British diplomat and the 2nd fastest female marathon runner in the UK) both from Second Wind AC and Ms Akemi Masuda, a sports journalist and former marathon runner.

David Warren said:

“As you all know, today is a special day as it marks 1000 days until the start of the London Olympic Games and following that the Paralympic Games.

In 2012, top athletes from all over the world, as well as spectators from across the world, will come together in London.  The organisers of the London 2012 Games share a strong commitment to sustainability through the Games and to building a strong legacy.  The organisers are focussing in particular on 5 key areas: combating climate change; reducing waste; enhancing biodiversity; promoting inclusion; and encouraging healthy living.

London is very much a global city; a city that already welcomes visitors from across the world.  And we hope that the Games will provide an exciting opportunity for both athletes and spectators to come together and experience the best that London and the UK can offer.  That is why we are encouraging people to "Be A Part of It".

I hope you enjoy today's event, and hope you will be able to enjoy the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

Following switching on the count down clock, all the enthusiastic participants lined up for start of the fun run around the Imperial Palace moat.  With a bang of a pistol by Ambassador Warren, the runners - all wearing  2012  “Be a part of it” T-shirts dashed out of the Embassy’s main gate, aiming to reach the goal at either 1000 seconds, 20 minutes and 12 seconds or 2012 seconds.  

The first runner who crossed the goal in front of the Embassy was Mr Stuart McIntosh with the record time of 20 minutes and 57 seconds.  Mr Tatsuya Inoue, the second runner, finished at 20 mimutes and 59 seconds.  Ms Frances Somerville finished at 34 minutes and 36 seconds - the closest to 2012 seconds.

Preparation for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in London are going extremely well, .  Please visit the official website (http://www.london2012.com/) for updated information and other details of the Games.

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