How do they live their Olympic days ? What do they do ? Last episode today of the whatsapp interview, the Kata double World champion, Antonio Diaz of Venezuela, the oldest karateka of the Olympic Games (42).
He is in Tokyo from the beginning since he was flag bearer during the opening ceremony. He was also one of the 30 candidates for the IOC athlete’s commission but didn’t get elected. But, still, he is enjoying the Tokyo games like a child…
By Ludovic Mauchien / Photo : DR
Your first impressions ?
These Games, for me, it’s like a dream. A dream that comes true as an athlete, but everything I am living here is very exciting. Of course, the Games are really different from what I imagined, with the restrictions for the pandemic, but just to be able to be in the village, going to the open ceremony, this is an unique opportunity, an incredible experience.
How is it to be flag bearer ?
This was an incredible honor for me to lead the delegation, by representing my country but also my sport. Being one of the flag bearers as a karate champion makes it seen by everybody. It’s good to represent our sport in the opening ceremony.
How do you spend your days in the Olympic village ?
In the village, I experiment everything. I have met incredible champions and superstars from other sports like Djokovic, Teddy Riner... I saw these people winning in previous Olympics, and now being here with them is just incredible. All the things for athletes in the village are good. The atmosphere is good.
Your day (Wednesday 4) ?
Today, I had the chance to go to the Budokan to see the stage for Karate. I was like a child going to Disneyland. It’s just incredible. I am happy to have the opportunity to see the venue today. So, the day of the competition, I focus more on what I have to do. The excitement was all for today.
I think and I hope that Karate has a good exposure at these Games. And we show the world we are a good sport and promote the Olympic values. We are like a family. I wish we do a very nice show and that Karate will come back someday.
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