OCA: Sapporo Mayor Promises 'Unrivalled Hospitality'

A warm welcome awaits athletes, coaches, officials and guests at snowy Sapporo ahead of the OCA’s 8th Asian Winter Games.

The AWG will run from February 19-26, with the opening ceremony at the iconic Sapporo Dome on Sunday afternoon, and preparations are in their final stages.

The OCA HQ is the Sapporo Grand Hotel in the city centre, and staff and volunteers are ready to provide all the information and services necessary for an enjoyable and fruitful stay and a comfortable working environment.

Apart from the big banner outside the hotel featuring AWG mascot Ezomon, the lobby displays mini flags of the competing National Olympic Committees.

The Mayor of Sapporo, Mr Katsuhiro Akimoto, says: "I am truly thrilled that this will be the third time Sapporo has hosted the event in the last 30 years.

"The many people who will come to Sapporo and Obihiro from countries and regions across Asia will be welcomed with unrivalled hospitality.

"This is expected to promote new exchanges as well as highlighting the appeal of the host cities and of Hokkaido as a whole," adds Mr Akimoto, who is President of the organising committee SAWGOC.

The official Team Welcome Ceremonies begin on Thursday, including host country Japan.

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