The Japan Keirin Autorace foundation (JKA) will contribute financially to the maintenance of the Izu Velodrome Tokyo 2020 track cycling venue under a new deal with the Games’ organisers.
The foundation, the official body for ‘keirin’ motor-paced cycle racing in Japan, will make the contribution following an agreement with the Tokyo 2020 organising committee to become an Official Contributor to the Games.
In a press release, Tokyo 2020 said the Official Contributors category recognises non-profit organisations that are contributing to the delivery of the Games. Official Contributors can activate their partnership “through the use of designations that explain their contribution within the territory of Japan”.
Welcoming the partnership, organising committee president Yoshiro Mori said: “It gives me great pleasure to welcome the JKA as an Official Contributor and we welcome their financial support for the maintenance of the Izu Velodrome. We strongly believe the Izu Velodrome will become a legacy of the Tokyo 2020 Games for Japan and the worldwide cycling racing industry and that this will contribute to the further development of the sport of cycling.”
JKA president Toshio Sasabe said: “I am greatly honoured that the JKA is able to make an official contribution to the success of the Tokyo 2020 Games. It is such a wonderful opportunity for the Izu Velodrome to serve as a venue for the thrilling track cycling events. The JKA will work together with local communities in the surrounding areas to enhance the atmosphere surrounding the Tokyo 2020 Games. In addition, the JKA will make efforts to ensure the Izu Velodrome becomes a legacy and continues to play a leading role after the Tokyo 2020 Games in the promotion of cycling and the development of its culture.”
The JKA’s remit goes beyond that of a typical sports national governing body. The organisation manages keirin-related and race operations businesses, and promotes and provides financial support to organisations in the cycling industry, including manufacturers, sports education bodies and cycling-related public organisations.
