Tokyo 2020 Olympics Will Add Men's 800, Women's 1500, & Mixed Medley Relay

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and president Thomas Bach announced the addition of the men's 800 freestyle, women's 1500 freestyle, and mixed medley relays to the swimming program at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.

Jun 10, 2017 by Maclin Simpson

Tokyo 2020 Olympics Will Add Men's 800, Women's 1500, & Mixed Medley Relay

In a new development, the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan will be "more youthful, more urban and will include more women," according to IOC President Thomas Bach.

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The decision from the IOC will have a significant impact on the gender gap hoping to increase to almost 50% female participation. There will be an increase of 15 new events overall, with mixed events going from nine to 18 events. Five new sports were also introduced into the 2020 Games back in August 2016. For a more youthful aspect, having proved success in previous Youth Olympic games, Basketball 3x3, BMX Freestyle, Sports Climbing, and Skateboarding have all been included as well.

USA Swimming released a statement with strong approval of the decision.

"The IOC's decision to expand the number of events in swimming at the Olympics is outstanding for the sport and our athletes. Any time you can give the athletes more chances to win Olympic medals, that's an incredible step forward," said Frank Busch, USA Swimming National Team Director.

Let's be honest. Who doesn't want to see Katie Ledecky swim the 1500 in the Olympics? Trick question. Everybody wants to see Katie Ledecky swim the 1500 in the Olympics.
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