Whether it’s a shared joy at hearing our anthem played as one of our team tops the podium or a bit of friendly rivalry with those supporting a different nation, it’s the perfect way to bring people together.
And this year more than ever, we need it!
Nothing better represented the struggles and challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic than the postponement of major sporting events, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. And there is no better way to celebrate the end of (almost) all lockdown restrictions than by immersing yourself for over two weeks in the highest level of sporting competition in the world!
All your favourite sports – and plenty more besides!
With Euro 2020 now in the history books – and what a tournament it was! – it’s time to widen our horizons and enjoy the incredible variety of sports that the Olympics offers. There are 33 in total to watch – including four brand-new sports: karate, sport climbing, surfing, and skateboarding.
This means there really is something to suit every taste, and no end of athletic achievement to be amazed by. So, whether you prefer the astounding speed and agility of the track athletes or the almost impossible spins and flips of the gymnasts, there’s something for you. You might even find your new favourite sport!
The Tokyo Games will feature 339 different events across its 16 days, so it’s time to start planning. Especially because – surprise! – some events actually start before the opening ceremony. The football, baseball and softball events kicked off on Wednesday the 21st, so there’s no time to lose!
The Guardian has a handy schedule and planner on their website, so why not start getting your timetable sorted?
After all, there’s nothing worse than waiting five years to see your favourite event, and realising it already happened yesterday morning!
The Opening Ceremony
And as for the opening ceremony – even for non-sports fans, it’s a must-see event. We all remember the stirring ceremony that kicked off London 2012, and this year will no doubt be just as spectacular, celebrating the culture and history of Japan as well as Tokyo 2020’s slogan, “united by emotion.”
While there will no doubt have to be some compromises as a result of the pandemic, the core message is something we all need to hear at the moment. It perfectly represents what we all hope to experience as the world gradually opens up again.
The opening ceremony will take place on 23rd July at midday UK time, and you can watch it live on the BBC.
Snack time
So, you’ve got your timetable planned out to make sure you see all the key moments. You know who you’re cheering for in every event. There’s one more step to making sure you make the most of the Olympics: snacks, of course!
If you’re looking to cheer on Team GB, there are plenty of great food options to help you out. Homemade chunky chips are the perfect choice, and how about a mouth-watering apple pie for those with a sweet tooth?
Or perhaps you want to get into the spirit of things by celebrating the wonderful cuisine of the host nation. Chicken noodle soup is a timeless, nourishing classic that will keep you going through those early-hours events – the time difference is going to be a bit of a struggle, we have to admit! Or why not order in some sushi? When it comes to delicious, healthy snacks, it really is hard to beat.
Olympic colours for your kitchen
There is perhaps no more recognisable logo in the world than the five Olympic rings. And if you really want to get into the Olympic spirit, why not grab some kitchen essentials in those classic colours?
Our Retro collection features handy appliances in nearly all of the Olympic colours. Our 1.5L Retro Jug Kettle will certainly be a standout in striking red, or how about our 800W Retro Digital Microwave in bright, floral yellow?
Of course, our top-end appliances will last you long past the closing ceremony – we’ve no doubt you’ll still be enjoying them when Paris 2024 rolls around!
Enjoy the spectacle!
After fifteen months of separation, of being unable to do the things we enjoy and see the people we love, the end is finally in sight. And there is no better way to celebrate the prospect of normalcy returning than seeing the most athletically capable people on the planet perform feats that stretch the human body to its limit – all the while cheering, singing, shouting and commiserating with your friends and family over every twist and turn!
So, from all of us here at Swan, we hope you enjoy Tokyo 2020 just as much as we will.
And we look forward to seeing plenty of Team GB athletes holding their medals aloft!
