Diverse fires from 31 local governments come together at the torch collection ceremony for the Asia Paralympics torch relay

The torch gathering ceremony for the torch relay for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Paralympic Games, which begins on the 18th, was held on the 15th at Tsurumai Park Sogakudo in Showa Ward, Nagoya City. The Olympic torch was created by combining fires lit in 31 municipalities in Aichi Prefecture.

Local governments use their own unique methods to light the fires, such as in the kitchens of restaurants where people with disabilities work, hydrogen-powered fire pits, and candle relays.

At the ceremony, the dance team ``Avant Garde'' gave an opening performance. Four supporters, including former athletes, collected fire from the local government and lit the torch. Lighting the torch of the torch relay, 20 runners ran through the park, with sports journalist Akemi Masuda as the first runner.

Masuda said, ``It was a great occasion for all the athletes who have worked hard, so I ran while hoping to set a personal best.'' The torch relay will reach its grand goal on the evening of the 17th at Meijo Park Kitaen Plaza in the city.

Approximately 4,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions are expected to participate in the tournament.