A three-day sports competition for physically and mentally disabled people from around the nation opened Saturday in Miyagi Prefecture.
About 3,200 athletes and 1,800 event members are participating in the First National Sports Games for the Disabled. The competition is the largest of its kind to be held in Japan, according to organizers.
The Crown Prince spoke at the opening ceremony, expressing his hope the participants will be able to give their best in the games, make many friends and create memories through their experience.
Organizers said the games will have 13 competitive events such as track, swimming, volleyball and wheelchair basketball.