How Will Japan's Heatwave Impact Athletes?

As the World Athletics Championships prepare to kick off in Tokyo, athletes, including Britain's Keely Hodgkinson, are gearing up for intense competition. With record-breaking summer temperatures and a forecasted 32°C on the opening day, athletes will face significant heat challenges during the tournament.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The World Athletics Championships in Tokyo will feature adverse heat conditions.
• Keely Hodgkinson, the reigning Olympic 800m champion, will compete under these challenging circumstances.
• Events have been scheduled early to mitigate the effects of extreme heat.
• World Athletics president Sebastian Coe has highlighted the need for sports to address climate change impacts.
• Tokyo is experiencing its hottest summer since record-keeping began in 1898.

Introduction to the Championships

The World Athletics Championships, a premier event in the athletic calendar, showcases elite athletes from around the globe. This year, the tournament promises to draw considerable attention, especially with Britain's Keely Hodgkinson competing in the 800m race. The championships are set against a backdrop of unprecedented heat in Tokyo, raising concerns for both athlete safety and performance.

Understanding the Heat Challenges

According to Sebastian Coe, the president of World Athletics, the heat conditions in Tokyo present significant challenges. This year's summer has been notably severe, with temperatures averaging 2.36°C higher than historical records. Coe acknowledged the ongoing issues, stating, "I don't think it's any great secret, we do have some heat challenges in Tokyo." This situation is compounded by the fact that during the 2021 Olympic Games, similar concerns led to the relocation of marathon events to the cooler city of Sapporo.

Impact of Climate on Sport

The increasing temperatures are not just a passing concern; they reflect a broader trend linked to climate change. Coe has stressed that the responsibility to adapt falls on sports leaders, particularly as government actions have been inadequate. "Governments have not stepped up to the plate, and sport is going to have to take some unilateral judgments and decisions here," he remarked. This shift highlights a pressing need for the athletic community to prioritise athlete welfare amid environmental challenges.

Keely Hodgkinson: A Rising Star

Keely Hodgkinson, who rose to fame as the 800m Olympic champion, has been vocal about her training experiences in Japan. In a recent Instagram post, she shared a photo from her training base with the caption, "Hot out here", emphasising the extreme conditions athletes are currently facing. Hodgkinson's participation is highly anticipated, as she aims to defend her title and showcase her talents on the global stage.

Preparing for the 800m Race

The 800m event is a demanding race that requires a blend of speed and endurance. Athletes must navigate the challenges of both physical exertion and environmental factors. In preparation for the championships, Hodgkinson and her team have been working to acclimatise to the heat, ensuring she can perform at her best despite the challenging weather conditions.

Event Schedule and Timing

The championships will span nine days, featuring a variety of track and field events. Notably, the men's and women's race walks are set to begin at 8:00 am local time on Saturday, a decision made to avoid the extreme afternoon heat. This strategy reflects a broader trend in sports to adapt to climate conditions by scheduling events at more manageable times.

What to Expect at the Championships

Fans can expect thrilling competitions as the world's best athletes gather in Tokyo. The 800m race will be one of the highlighted events, with Hodgkinson vying for victory. Additionally, the race walks promise to be exciting, given their early morning start aimed at countering the heat. As athletes face these conditions, their performances will serve as a testament to their resilience and dedication.

Conclusion

As the World Athletics Championships unfold in Tokyo, the combination of elite competition and extreme weather conditions sets the stage for a memorable event. Keely Hodgkinson's participation in the 800m race will be closely watched, not only for her athletic prowess but also for her ability to adapt to the heat challenges. The ongoing dialogue about climate impact in sports underscores the need for a collective response, prioritising athlete welfare and safety in future events.

With the world watching, how will athletes adapt to these extreme conditions while striving for excellence? #WorldAthletics #KeelyHodgkinson #ClimateChallenge

FAQs

What are the expected temperatures during the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo?

The temperatures during the World Athletics Championships are expected to reach around 32°C, posing significant heat challenges for athletes competing in various events.

Why were some events moved during the 2021 Olympics?

During the 2021 Olympics, marathon and race walk events were relocated to Sapporo due to concerns about extreme heat in Tokyo, which could compromise athlete safety and performance.

Who is Keely Hodgkinson?

Keely Hodgkinson is a British middle-distance runner and the reigning Olympic champion in the 800m event, known for her exceptional speed and endurance on the track.

How does climate change affect sports events?

Climate change increases the frequency and severity of extreme weather conditions, such as higher temperatures, which can impact athlete performance, safety, and event scheduling.

What measures are being taken to ensure athlete welfare during the championships?

Organisers have scheduled events, like the race walks, early in the morning to mitigate the effects of heat, demonstrating a commitment to athlete welfare during the championships.