This month, Shane and Nat discuss how the Tokyo Olympics may still be able to go ahead even without a vaccine next year.  Also, should the Olympics still go ahead or be abandoned? The result of a survey of Japanese businesses may surprise you. Shane catches up with javelin World Champion, Kelsey Lee Barber.  What does the upcoming summer of athletics look like, and have Covid-19 impacted her training regime? A year out from the Paralympics, Nat chats to Australian Chef de Mission, Kate McLoughlin about the challenges of the 12 months postponement. See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Ready Set Tokyo

SEPTEMBER EDITION: Keeping up the momentum in Japan for 2021 | Protests or no protests- athletes weigh in | Kelsey Lee Barber's javelin journey to Tokyo | A year to go to Paralympics

This month Shane and Nat take a closer look at how Tokyo plans to go ahead with the Games regardless of the availability of a Covid-19 vaccine. Nat catches up with Australian Chef de Mission, Ian Chesterman about the plans for next year, and how Victoria's newly implemented stage 4 lockdowns are impacting athletes.  He also pays tribute to Alex "Chumpy" Pullin and Ekaterina Alexandrovskaya. And, Sydney 20 years on- Shane and Nat recall their memories of the opening ceremony. Twitter: @ReadySetTokyo

AUGUST EDITION: Working around Covid-19 plan for Tokyo 2021; Australian Chef de Mission Ian Chesterman

This week, Shane and Nat celebrate Olympic Day at a time when we should’ve been just a month out from the Tokyo Olympics.   Soon to be four time Olympian, Melissa Wu opens up on training in isolation, and why the Games’ postponement could be a blessing in disguise personally as she readies herself for Tokyo. And, as Novak Djokovic faces the wrath of the tennis world, Sam Groth chat to Nat about what it means for the sport.

MELISSA WU on her preparations for Tokyo, and celebrating Olympic Day | SAM GROTH weighs in on tennis’ Covid breach

Pressure is mounting on the IOC to restructure ‘Rule 50,’ which states: “No kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas."  This week, Shane and Nat discuss the potential rule change and what it might mean for athletes at the Tokyo Olympics. Shane catches up with shooter, Sergei Evglevski, currently preparing for his maiden Olympic Games.  Evglevski, the son of six time Olympian, Lalita Yauhleuskaya. Nat chats to Winter Olympian, Harley Windsor about his successes both on and off the ice, and what it’s like representing Australia’s indigenous population on the world stage. And this week’s ‘The 5’: The 5 Most Watched Olympic Sports. You’ll be surprised at what comes in at number one.

Protests at the Olympic Games- Is it time for the IOC to concede? | Shooting star, Sergei Evglevski following in his mother’s footsteps | Indigenous Winter Olympian Harley Windsor

This week, Shane and Nat discuss getting athletes to Tokyo, and how a “wildcard” system could potentially replace qualification events due to time constraints. Reigning Olympic modern pentathlon champion Chloe Esposito tells Nat she isn't ruling out competing in the next Olympics. In January she announced she was pregnant and would  miss the Tokyo 2020 games, but now the event has been postponed a year, it's back on the cards. 4 time Olympian, Anna Meares has a new book out, and opens up to Shane about her rivalry with Victoria Pendleton, retirement, and the challenges faced after retiring. And in this week’s “The Five,” Shane countdown his top five Olympic tourists attractions. Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter: @ReadySetTokyo

CHLOE ESPOSITO: “I’m not ruling (Tokyo 2021) out yet.” | ANNA MEARES: “I was my Everest” | Has the IOC failed to properly trademark “Tokyo 2021”?

This week, Tamsyn Manou (nee Lewis) joins Shane to discuss the challenges faced by athletes during the Covid shutdown, and why an easing of restrictions is so important to resume normal training.  Manou also weighs in on whether Tokyo 2021 could be the "Asterisk Games", and whether the Games should go ahead, even if some of the world's best are absent. Two time winter Olympian, Sami Kennedy-Sim reflects on how Covid-19 has impacted preparations for Beijing and the 2020 ski season. After weeks of only training in her backyard and not seeing anyone, she tells Natalie, "I think any athlete that says they haven't entertained [the thought of] retirement in the last 12 to 14 weeks is probably lying." Plus, the legacy of Jacco Verhaeren at Swimming Australia, and could the Seven Network on sell the rights to Tokyo 2021? And this week's 'The 5': The Top 5 Heartwarming Moments at Olympic Games.

TAMSYN MANOU: Why the Olympics is the pinnacle regardless of who competes; Athlete challenges during Covid; her response to Eddie McGuire's whack at Athletics Australia | WINTER OLYMPICS: The impact of Covid on winter sports with dual Olympian Sami Kennedy-Sim | SWIMMING: The importance of Jacco Verhaeren to Swimming Australia

After weeks of recovery, Natalie Peters is back, and shares her Covid-19 journey with Shane McInnes.  We also discuss what measures may be required in Tokyo next year, and why these Games, should they go ahead, will be unlike any previously held. Kayaker, Jo Bridgen- Jones opens up on life on the frontline as a paramedic. Jo reveals to Natalie there are similarities between working on the frontline during a medical pandemic and competing at the Olympics - you have high expectations and want to perform at your best. David Culbert is a commentator and Olympian and is now at Commonwealth Games Australia- He discusses what he and his colleagues will be watching out for in Tokyo next year, and why the Birmingham Games will be one of the biggest yet, just 12 months after the Olympics. You can follow us on Twitter: @ReadySetTokyo.

From the Kayak to the Ambulance: How one athlete went from training for the Games to working as a paramedic full time | QUICK TURNAROUND: David Culbert on the 12 month between the Olympics and preparing for the Commonwealth Games | How different could the Tokyo Games look in 2021?

The 1964 Olympics were one of the most significant Games of the modern era.  Less than two decades after the end of World War II, Japan welcomed the world.  So, how did these Games change the perception of Japan on the global stage, and what did it mean for Japanese citizens? Roy Tomizawa, author of “1964- The Greatest Year in the History of Japan” joins, Shane McInnes, to discuss those Games, and also look ahead to Tokyo 2021. With cities around the world feeling the pinch financially due to the Coronavirus pandemic, is now the time to be considering the Olympics bid?  For the Councils of South East Queensland, the answer is an emphatic, “yes.”  So, as Queensland’s tourist hot spots look to get back on their feet, what can the Games bring to the region? And how can residents be assured the Games are the right investment? Mark Jamieson is the Mayor of the Sunshine Coast and reveals what he hopes the Games can deliver in the decade leading up to the 2032 Games. And, this week’s “The 5”: The 5 cities yet to host an Olympic Games, that should hose the event in the future. Twitter: @ReadySetTokyo.

TOKYO 1964: Why these Games were so important to Japan both domestically and on the world stage | 2032- BID OR BUST: Covid-19 won’t force South-East Queensland off course as the region pushes ahead with its Olympic bid.

She's one of the stars of Australian rowing, and Georgie Rowe this week joins Shane McInnes for in-depth chat on her journey to Tokyo.  Fresh from her world record breaking attempt on the ergo, Rowe opens up about training in isolation, the elongated wait for the Olympics, and how she balances her time between nursing and training. With just 6 months between the Tokyo Summer Games and Beijing Winter Games, 2021 will be a busy year for the AOC, but newly appointed Winter team Chef de Mission, Geoff Lipshut is keen for the challenge.  Lipshut outlines preparations for the Games, and discusses the rise in popularity of winter sports both recreationally and competitively.   And, in his weekly "The Five" Shane lists his five MUST buy souvenirs from the Olympic Games. TWITTER: @ReadySetTokyo

ROWEING FOR GOLD: Georgie Rowe on training, Tokyo, world records and life as aged care nurse during Covid- 19 | WINTER'S COMING: The challenges facing our Winter Olympians ahead of Beijing 2022

This week, reining Olympic champion, KYLE CHALMERS joins Shane McInnes to discuss his return to the pool, after enduring the Coronavirus lockdown.  Chalmers also reveals his plans for the future, and why an AFL dream needs to be put to the side.  The Rio gold medallist also opens up on his rivalry with American star, Caleb Dressel, and the impact on his preparations for the now delayed, Tokyo Games. Four time, Olympian, LAUREN JACKSON, opens up on her new role with Basketball Australia, and outlines some of the challenges players face given the postponed Olympics. And, what is the plan forward for the WNBL in terms of fixturing and getting a season underway on time. DR. PETER BRUKNER breaks down the government’s “return to sport” framework.  Also, what will sport look like in a post pandemic world, and why sport will be more hygienic when it returns. You can send your feedback and questions at anytime via Twitter: @ReadySetTokyo

EXCLUSIVE- KYLE CHALMERS ON SWIMMING OVER AFL: “I’m focussed on Birmingham and Paris”; His rivalry with Caleb Dressel | LAUREN JACKSON on the challenges for the Opals given postponed Games | DR. PETER BRUKNER: “The odds are in favour of it (Tokyo 2021 going ahead)”

This week, John Coates returns to "Ready Set Tokyo" and says the lingering threat of Covid-19 over next year's Tokyo 2021 remains a legitimate for concern for the IOC.  Coates discusses the efforts going into the Games to reduce costs, and why Tokyo 2021 could be a cost-efficient blueprint for Games going forward. Coates reflects on the achievements of the AOC on the 100th anniversary of its founding, and discusses the highlights and challenges, including the decision to push ahead with sending athletes to the 1980 Moscow Games. And, how financially secure is the AOC amidst the Coronavirus pandemic? Also, London gold medallist and Rio silver medallist, Mat Belcher discuss life in isolation and his growing frustrations at not being able to get out on the water.  The postponement of the Games has changed his preparations, and he explains how. Plus, "The Five" is back, and this week, Shane goes through his Top 5 Australian Summer Olympic moments of all time. Twitter: @ReadySetTokyo

ONE ON ONE: AOC President John Coates | Concerns around Tokyo 2021 | Why the AOC is in a strong financial position | Cutting costs for Tokyo | A century of the AOC | Two time Olympian, Mat Belcher

This week, Shane McInnes takes a closer look at the sponsorship and marketing side of the Olympic Games.  In an exclusive interview with the IOC’s first ever Marketing and Broadcast Rights Director, Michael Payne, Shane finds out whether the value of the Games for broadcasters can continue to increase, and why being an Olympic sponsor is so sought after.  Also, is there still value in hosting the Games despite the massive investment? For years, McDonald’s was one of the IOC’s major partners, but that relationship ended back in 2017. At the time, McDonald’s said it was to focus on other priorities, but Payne reveals, there’s more to the story, and why the IOC was happy to part way with the fast food giant. Athlete Insight: Elena Galiabovitch has qualified for Tokyo 2021.  She details her training life in lockdown, and why shooting went from a hobby and to career. The Five: Our new segment, this week the five most powerful brands associated with the Olympic Games. Follow us on Twitter: @ReadySetTokyo

EXCLUSIVE: The man behind the IOC‘s marketing success reveals the real reason McDonalds and the IOC parted ways | The value of the Games for broadcasters & host cities | Athlete Insight: Shooter, Elena Galiabovitch

With the Tokyo Games delayed, Shane takes a look at what it means to various stakeholders... the athletes, fans and the media. Steve Solomon admits the last month a “been a whirlwind” as athletes were told the Tokyo Games were definitely going ahead, only to be told days later to prepare for 2021. A finalist in London in 2012, Solomon details in the impact COVID-19 has had on athletes, and the manner in which they now train. Respected journalist, Phil Lutton says the postponement of the games could have a significant impact on our swimmers, given qualifying for Tokyo will now be delayed 12 months. Also, was it arrogance from the IOC by failing to suggest earlier the Olympics may need to be delayed. Also, as we battle boredom and self isolation, Shane starts his previews of Olympic related books to sink your teeth into on the couch. As always, leave your feedback at @ReadySetTokyo, and we look forward to another 12 months in preparation for Tokyo 2021?

IT’S BEEN A WHIRLWIND: Steve Solomon reflects on the last month from an athlete’s perspective & how does training change in the Covid- 19 world; Phil Lutton on the impact for our swimmers and why Brisbane 2032 is no longer front of mind; Why 2021 presents an opportunity for fans

The Tokyo Games have been postponed and this week Shane and Nat have the biggest story in world sport covered from all angles. IT’S A RELIEF: Chef de Mission Ian Chesterman shares his thoughts on the decision to officially delay the Games until 2020, and what the impact will be on the AOC and athletes. COMMONSENSE PREVAILED: Swimming Australia CEO, Leigh Russell on why Australian swimming was on the front foot amidst concerns around the Tokyo 2020 Games going ahead. Is there financial pressure on Swimming Australia during Covid-19? And, what now for the World Swimming Championships in 2021? I CAN BE IN EVEN BETTER SHAPE IN A YEARS TIME: Athlete Ryan Gregson finds the positives in the Olympic delay.  How does it impact athlete’s training and preparation? Plus, Tokyo 2020 or Tokyo 2021? And, why Shane was on eBay to capitalise on the change of date. Be sure to follow us on Twitter: @ReadySetTokyo.

POSTPONED | Ian Chesterman’s relief; Aus swim boss: “Commonsense prevailed”; Ryan Gregson on the changes to athlete’s preparations

This week, Shane's in the studio and Nat's in isolation after her European adventure, as we ponder how on earth the Olympic Games can still go ahead. In a one on one interview, AOC boss, Matt Carroll discusses what the IOC is doing to protect athletes in a bid to have the Games go ahead in 2020.  Surprisingly, there's been no talk of a plan B, so what's being done to give the Games their best chance of going ahead? Olympic and Australian basketball great, Andrew Gaze weighed in with his frank assessment of the situation for athletes: "they only have a small window." Will some athletes take the risk and compete in Tokyo regardless of the risks. Don't forget, you can get us on twitter: @ReadySetTokyo.  Your questions and feedback are always welcome.

"'POSTPONE' NEVER MENTIONED": AOC boss Matt Carroll on getting to the Games | Gaze: If I was was an athlete "I would take the risk"

Join Shane McInnes and Natalie Peters for Ready Set Tokyo as we countdown to the 2020 Games in Japan! Each week our experienced hosts will give you an update on preparations for the Games by exploring the sports, athletes, officials, organisers, issues, fans and much more. Hear interviews with athletes and other newsmakers, learn from those well versed in Japanese language and culture, and prepare for plenty of laughs as our hosts recall their experiences covering the past four Olympic Games.

hubhopper

Ready Set Tokyo

hubhopper