Did you know?

Homage and symbolism

The carrier of the flame, Yoshinori Sakai, was chosen because he was born on 6 August 1945, the day the atomic bomb exploded in Hiroshima, in homage to the victims and as a call for peace in the world.

Fair play rewarded

The first Fair Play prize awarded by the International Olympic Committee, but given by the Japanese National Olympic Committee, was presented to two Swedes, Lars Gunnar Kall and Stig Lennart Kall, who gave up their chances of winning the regatta to come to the aid of two other competitors whose boat had sunk.

Honour to Japan

Japan wanted to show the world its talent for organisation. It success earned it three awards from the International Olympic Committee- the Olympic Cup, the Bonacossa Trophy and the "Diploma of Merit".

The end of a type of running track

A cinder running track was used for the last time in the athletics events.

The first time in Asia

It was the first time the Olympic Games were given to an Asian country.

New on the programme

Appearance of two new sports- judo (men) and volleyball (men and women).

A team sport for women

The first appearance of a team sport for women- volleyball

An innovation in pole vaulting

The first time a fibreglass pole was used in the polevaulting competition.

(Credit: IOC. Click here for further information.)