There is always a tear or two when the Olympic Flame is finally extinguished, but this time it seemed even more poignant.

After all the words written about Tokyo 2020, particularly over the past 18 months during the pandemic, it seems remarkable to be at the end of the Olympic Games.

More than 25 years ago, I dreamt that surfing could one day be in the Olympic Games.

On Sunday, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach will close the Games with time-honoured words, but modified slightly because of the circumstances. He will say: "In accordance with our tradition, I call upon the youth of the world to join us three years from now in Paris, there to celebrate with us the Games of the 33rd Olympiad." 

Halfway through the weightlifting programme at Tokyo 2020 Antonio Urso said, "The Olympic Games is demonstrating that it's possible to have a completely different sport, to rewrite weightlifting."

There were many who said Tokyo 2020 would be a disaster. In fact, its has turned out to be a delight.

When Armand Duplantis, Katerina Stefanidi and their rivals go for Olympic gold in Tokyo this week, they will be vaulting on the shoulders of giants. A remarkable succession of these early champions came from the same friendly English market town that spawned comedian Stan Laurel.

It was, is, will be a classic water cooler discussion point: can you, should you, share sporting success? Can an Olympic title, for instance, properly be shared, as it was, is and will be in the Tokyo 2020 Games men’s high jump?

Laurel Hubbard is poised to make history by becoming the first openly trans woman to compete at the Olympic Games, with the New Zealander’s appearance here tomorrow having been the subject of intense media attention over recent months.

A week ago there came a point in the Opening Ceremony when the Olympic motto was displayed on the floor of the stadium. "Faster, Higher, Stronger….Together."

Seven sessions so far and three have been all-time greats. The roll-call of stars at the Tokyo International Forum, venue for weightlifting at these Olympic Games, is a long one and we are only halfway through the schedule. 

There were mixed emotions on the sidelines as the first 3x3 Olympic basketball competition drew to a close here on Wednesday (July 28) night.

Well, are you being gripped by the Games? Viewed from afar, so far so good!

Today is a very special day in the countdown to Birmingham 2022 as it marks exactly one year until the Games begin.