The City of Sakai and World Masters Games 2021 Kansai Organizing Committee has decided to postpone the 2021 Japan Open Disc Golf Tournament until May 2022. Details of the decision are outlined below:
1. Decision of WMG2021 Kansai Organization Committee
The Kansai Organizing Committee, who are the main organizers of the World Masters Games 2021, have been exploring all possibilities in the hopes of holding WMG as originally scheduled in May of 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is not possible to determine whether the Committee can establish a confident event operating system. In addition, even if a system is established, there’s a possibility that severe restrictions for the participants would be imposed which would create conflict with the philosophy of the World Masters Games, as follows:
Our philosophy is for sports enthusiasts from all over the world to gather and enjoy lifelong sports together. Participants and local residents will create excitement through shared experiences and interactions. Furthermore, participants should enjoy to the fullest extent Japan tourism with family and friends.
In light of the above, the Organizing Committee conducted many careful discussions with host municipalities, co-organizers, sponsors and International Masters Games Association (IMGA). As a result, a conclusion was reached and it was decided to postpone the WMG2021.
2. Decision of WMG2021 Kansai Sakai City Committee
As an organizer of the WMG2021 Kansai Japan Open Disc Golf, Sakai City accepted their decision as an appropriate one. As a result, it was also decided to postpone the Japan Open Disc Golf Tournament for a period of 1 year.
3. Future Initiatives
The Kansai Sakai City Committee, hosts of the Japan Open 2021, apologizes for any inconvenience which may be caused to more than 300 registered participants. In response to the expectations of Disc Golf enthusiasts around the world, Sakai City felt it necessary to promptly respond with full consideration to those participating. Health and safety of our participants are number one priorities.
4. Future Schedule
〇 Name: World Masters Games 2021 Kansai Japan Open Disc Golf
〇 Date: May 13th 2022(Friday) ～ May 20th 2022(Friday)
〇 Tournament Venue: Fukui Prefecture Sakai City Seaside Nature Park and Fukui Country Club (No change)
5. Re-entry to the Games
In regards to paid entry fees, participants will be contacted in advance and a full refund will be granted. Bank service fees may apply. The WMG Japan Open Tournament Rules and Regulations will announce re-entry information through the official website as soon.
Thank you for your understanding and desire to compete in the Japan Open Disc Golf Tournament and WMG/Sakai City cultural experience and festival.
For more information please visit: https://www.jo-discgolf-fukui-sakai.jp/en/
