Ready Set Tokyo

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.

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 See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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?

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.

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.

This week, Daniel Watkins joined Shane for an in-depth chat about reaching the Olympics, choosing to pursue canoe-slalom, and why he has a few nerves about heading off to this first Olympic Games.  Watkins also takes us his to his favourite canoe destination in the world, and reveals why it's number one on his list. Riley Day is just 19, but has already competed in a home Commonwealth Games, and raced against the world's fastest man.  Now, she's looking to add an Olympics to her ever expanding resume. Day also opens up on the challenges of athletics, and the importance of a mentor like, Olympic champion, Sally Pearson. The new Australian Sports Museum at the MCG is a sports lovers paradise, especially the Olympic Games exhibition.  The curator Jed Smart outlined some of the new exhibitions, and revealed the one item he'd love to have in the museum but simply couldn't get. Plus, "Journeys of Japan" heads to Miyajima Island off the coast of Hiroshima. Twitter: @ReadySetTokyo

This week, Ryan and Gen Gregson join Shane for an extended chat about their careers and journey towards Tokyo 2020. Athletics’ glamour couple opens up on their previous Games’ experiences in London and Rio, and why there’s no bunking together in the athlete’s village.   Gen details her experience of initially being prevented from competing at the 2012 Games until AOC President’s John Coates intervened, and answers whether former Athetlics Australia high performance boss, Eric Hollingsworth ever apologised for holding her back. And, they both give a frank assessment of the current coronavirus fears and whether it will hold them back from Tokyo. Plus, Shane outlines why fans could be the biggest losers should the coronavirus concerns continue, and ‘Journeys of Japan’ visits the city of Kobe, 25 years on from the Great Hanshin Earthquake. TWITTER: @ReadySetTokyo 

The coronavirus continues to dominate the Tokyo 2020 conversation, and this week, Shane and Natalie are joined by respected sports physician, Dr. Peter Larkins. While the potential remains for the Games to be cancelled, Larkins gives a measured outlook on the crisis, and explains why it’s too early to be asking for refunds for flights and hotels. Meanwhile, athletes won’t stop their Games’ preparations, and shooter Dan Repacholi is ready to embark on a fifth Games journey.  This time though, the Commonwealth Games gold medallist wants more than just a track suit as he looks to claim a maiden Olympic medal. Plus, why Cate Campbell must be the front runner to carry the flag at the Opening ceremony and “Journeys of Japan” takes us karaokeing.  Don’t forget to leave a rating, and review on Apple Podcasts, and you can contact us via Twitter @ReadySetTokyo

At a time when the Australian Olympic Committee is moving away from medal targets, one sport has made its target clear: GOLD.  Jerril Rechter chats all things basketball with Shane and Nat including the expectations on the Opals and Boomers in Tokyo, the impact of Brett Brown, and why some alterations may need to be made at the Athlete’s Village. Michael Klim reflects on his career ahead of his induction into the International Swimming Hall of Fame. Klim gives his thoughts on the current crop, and was his generation of swimmers the golden era of Australian swimming? Klim also puts his support behind the Australian Institute of Sport and its importance for emerging stars. Some sports at the Games are tougher than others.  Modern Pentathlon is one of those.  Ed Fernon has qualified for a second Games and takes us through the mental toll of competing at the highest level. Plus, Tokyo pulling out all stops to prevent further spread of coronavirus five months out from the Games.  And a hidden gem off the coast of Tokyo in our ‘Journeys in Japan.’ Don’t forget you can now listen via Nine’s Wide World of Sports at wwos.com.au Twitter: @ReadySetTokyo

Bronte Campbell is one of the stars of the pool, and this week she joins Shane and Nat to discuss her preparations for Tokyo.  Campbell discusses her rivalry with sister, Cate and opens up about supporting her sister after “possibly the greatest choke in Olympic history.”  The Olympic gold medallist also questions the time in limbo for team mate Shayna Jack, who is still yet to learn her fate from ASADA. And, should Mack Horton’s protest against Sun Yang be permitted at an event like the Olympics? Campbell gives her view. Stewart McSweyn and Kurtis Marschall have locked in their places on the Australian Olympic Team, so where to from here for two up and coming champions of Athletics. And, is coronavirus a legitimate concern ahead of Tokyo 2020. Plus, redemption for Liz Cambage, and an insight to the Games Opening Ceremony. Don’t forget to rate the show on Apple Podcasts and join us on Twitter: @ReadySetTokyo. 

Shane McInnes and Natalie Peters are back for 2020 in the lead up to the Tokyo Olympics. This week, as the coronavirus spreads, what is the impact on the Olympic Games, and our athletes?  In an exclusive interview, Australian Olympic Team, Medical Director, Dr. David Hughes outlines his concerns, what’s being done, and what should be done ahead of the Games.  And, what was a greater concern, the Brazilian Zika outbreak of 2016, or the threat of coronavirus in 2020. Chef de Mission, Ian Chesterman weighs in on coronavirus, and reveals his thoughts on Nick Kyrgios who refused to represent Australia in 2016. And, as preparations hit another gear in Tokyo, will all our athletes be comfortable at the Olympic Village? Plus, we recognise the donations of athletes to the Australian bushfire appeal, and our new segments... ‘Journey’s of Japan’ and ‘Fact or Fiction.’ Follow us on twitter: @ReadySetTokyo

EP: 23 In the final episode for 2019, Shane and Nat catch up with Phil Lutton, who's covered the Shayna Jack story from the start.  He gives his thoughts on the case, and as a Brisbane based reporter, shares his opinion on Queensland's 2032 bid. Sally Pearson joined Shane and Nat earlier in the year, after announcing her retirement.  We thought it would be worth re-visiting that chat, in the wake of Pearson revealing her career may not be over yet. Plus, golf, surfing, and why there's been an advertising boom, seven months out from the Games. Thanks for all your support in 2019, and we can't we to countdown to Tokyo from mid-January.

EP 22: Queensland's 2032 bid dominates the agenda this week with Shane and Nat.   AOC President John Coates joined the show to talk about the 2032 bid, and what the bid has going for it, and what still needs work.  Coates also gave his assessment of Australia hosting a third Olympic Games. Elvis Fatovic will lead our men's water polo team in Tokyo.  He discusses our chances in the pool, and why he doesn't talk water polo with his son. Plus, the impact of banning Russia from the Games, and when is the best time to book flights if you're attending the Games?

EP 21: This week, Shane and Nat are back together and at the top of the agenda, Tokyo's new national stadium.   The entry order for the opening ceremony is changing and it's fair to say, Shane and Nat failed to agree with the changes. Laurie Lawrence arguably has the greatest profile of any Australian swim coach.  He's got a collection of classic Olympic stories to share, and believes Shayna Jack has been robbed of a Games opportunity. Plus, we take a trip back to 1999 when SOCOG was public enemy number one, and then Prime Minister, John Howard weighs in.

EP: 20 Shane's back, Nat gets the week off, and anticipation for the Games continues to grow. Shane looks at the event schedule for Tokyo 2020, and why it's a bonanza for Aussie sports fans. Ryley Batt has been appointed co-captain for our Paralympic team.  Batt discusses bringing the team together and why Tokyo could be the best Paralympics yet. Jon Anderson is one of Australia's finest sports journalists.  He discusses why Cathy Freeman's Sydney run resonates with sports fans globally, and describes why the 1936 Berlin Olympics would've been the Games to attend.

This week on Ready Set Tokyo, Natalie Peters chats to London Olympian Steve Solomon about his bid to race in Tokyo, and his involvement in the award-winning Olympics Unleashed program. And it's the anniversary of the Melbourne 1956 Games, so she's joined by Harry Blutstein, the author of Cold War Games, who describes the 'Blood in the Water' grudge match and secret agents running the streets of Melbourne.

Episode 18: Brandon Loupos sets his sights on Tokyo 2020 after BMX World Championships victory. And Jaryd Clifford wins gold in the vision-impaired 1500m in world record time at the World Para Athletics Championships.

EP17: This week, Shane and Nat discuss some of the learnings from the Rugby World Cup, and what Games organisers should take out of pre-Olympics event. Shelley Watts competed in Rio back in 2016, but next year she'll be part of the team helping to put the boxing program together for the IOC.  Watts, spoke candidly about her role, and admitted work needs to be done to ensure consistent and honest judging across the sport. Sports shooter, Paul Adams has claimed a quota spot for next year's Olympics, and discusses his quest to compete at a second consecutive games. Plus, this week's "Taste of Tokyo" take us to, Shidashita, the home of surfing's Olympic debut.

EP16: Debate continues to rage over whether the IOC has made the right call in moving the marathon from Tokyo to Sapporo for next year’s Olympics. This week, Shane and Nat explore the pros and cons of such a move, and it’s fair to say, they lean more one way than the other. Jodie Kenny is about to enter her third Olympics, so what’s in store for the Hockeyroos skipper? It’s been 19 years since the Hockeyroos last Olympic medal, and they’ll be out to change that in Tokyo. When it comes to inspirational stories, there are few which challenge the journey of Curtis McGrath. The Paracanoeist recounts his journey, and details his hopes for 2020. 

EP15: This week, Shane and Nat explore the marathon, and are joined by four time Olympian, Steve Moneghetti.  Moneghetti gives his strong opinion on moving the marathon away from Tokyo, and questions the decision.  He also weighs in on Eliud Kipchoge’s sub 2-hour marathon. Strath Gordon is the AOC’s head of communications, and has just returned from Tokyo.  After touring many of the sites, he provides an update on preparations for the Games.   Plus, we take a look at some of the best Olympic Games logos, after Paris 2024 this week released its logo for the Games. 

Fresh from the World Championships, Jess Fox joins Shane and Nat as she counts down to Tokyo 2020.  With Olympic silver and bronze already around her neck, will it be third time lucky and gold in Japan. Steve Hooker won gold in the pole vault in 2008, but, what does it take to be the world's best pole vaulter? Plus, is commentating sport actually the next best thing to competing? Turns out, it might not be. And, we've got all the latest selection news, in this week's edition of Ready Set Tokyo.

EP 13: Todd Woodbridge is a four time Olympian, and this week reflects on his Games experiences including gold in Atlanta.  Woodbridge also addresses why tennis belongs at the Olympics, despite arguments to the contrary. At just 17, Hayley Wilson is one of the world's best skateboarders. Before 2016, she could have never dreamed of representing Australia at the Olympics and now, its close to a reality. Plus, will adequate security be in place in Tokyo during the Olympics, and our weekly, Taste of Tokyo.

EP 12: This week, Nat was one of the first reporters to catch up with our newest world champion, Kelsey- Lee Barber.   Softball is back at the Olympics for the first time since 2008, and Australia is focussed on one thing- GOLD.  Jade Wall discusses qualifying for the Games, and how she juggles working full time, with training for the Olympics. Also, the disastrous timing of events at IAAF World Championships in Doha, and why the swimming finals in Tokyo won’t be prime time for Aussie fans.

Australian Kelsey-Lee Barber has won javelin gold in dramatic fashion at the World Championships in Doha. The Canberra thrower moved from fourth place to first with a huge final-round throw of 66.56 metres. Just hours after her win, Kelsey-Lee spoke to Natalie Peters on Macquarie Radio's Ready Set Tokyo program. Kelsey-Lee has told Ready Set Tokyo, "The World Champion part is still the bit that's sinking in." "You can win comps and you can win medals, but wow, it feels unbelievable to say that I'm a World Champion." Kelsey-Lee has also given her take on negative headlines about extreme heat impacting competition, and poor crowds at events. The marathon and walk events have been starting at midnight, in a bid to limit the impact of extreme heat and humidity. Kelsey-Lee says she's very grateful to be competing in an air conditioned stadium, but many of her teammates aren't as lucky. "During the day it is exceptionally hot, almost too hot to be outside." Athletes and commentators say crowd numbers at the meet have been disappointing, but Kelsey-Lee told Ready Set Tokyo, it's just different. "I think the crowds are fantastic for what we have here. They're very enthusiastic and they're sharing lots of energy, but we're maybe just not filling the stadiums."   Ready Set Tokyo is your weekly Olympic podcast ahead of Tokyo 2020, hosted by Macquarie Radio's Shane McInnes and Natalie Peters. The athletes. The playmakers. Opinions. A celebration of the Games. Subscribe to the podcast or hear it on Macquarie Sports Radio at midday Saturday.

This week, Andrew Gaze reminisces about one of his greatest achievements- flag bearer at the Sydney 2000 Opening Ceremony.  Gaze also takes us back to the 1984 Los Angeles Games where he made his debut, and answers the question: NBA Title or Olympic Gold? Matt Belcher is no stranger to Olympic success, so what are his chances on the water in Tokyo? And, with so many different classes in sailing, what are the differences?  Belcher breaks it down. Plus, the Rugby World Cup is a test event for Tokyo and Japan, and already some major issues have come to the fore.  And, this week's phrase of the week, is a MUST for anyone visiting Japan.

EP 10: This week we check-in with three time Commonwealth Games gold medalist, cyclist Matt Glaetzer ahead of his Olympics campaign. We also chat to the Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson to find out what a Brisbane Games bid would mean to South East Queensland. And we explore the cutting edge technology set to be used in Tokyo next year.  

EP 9: This week Kevan Gosper joins us to reflect on how he and his team won the bid to host the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.  He discusses the challenges SOCOG faced in the lead up to the Games, and gives his thoughts on a potential bid for Brisbane 2032. And the Australian men's hockey team have qualified for another Olympics, we catch up with the team's captain Aran Zalewski.

Ep 8: This week we chat to former Major League Baseball player Luke Hughes as he tries to help the Aussie Baseball team qualify for next year's Games. 64 bucks for a burger? We look at the exorbitant prices ready to hit Tokyo tourists. And a bronze medal at this year's World Championships has set the bar high for our Women's Water Polo team. We check in with one of the stars from the team, Isobel Bishop.

This week Shane and Nat explore the anti Olympics movement, and why there are people who actually believe they can break the Olympic spirit. Nat has concerns about a lack of accomodation availability in Tokyo for the two weeks of the Games, while Shane shares his experience of finding a new hotel room smack bang in the middle of the London 2012 Games. The Paralympic movement is thriving, and Australia is at the forefront.  Kate McLoughlin is the Chef de Mission for the Australian team and provides an update on preparations. Racewalking is as much about speed as it is technique.  Rio bronze medallist, Dane Bird Smith explains what’s involved in racewalking, and opens up about his mental health battles. Plus, this week’s Taste of Tokyo answers the question of where to arrive when travelling to Tokyo: Narita or Haneda?  

EP 6: This week we chat to Olympic legend Kieran Perkins. He reflects on the memories of Games' past and gives us his assessment of the current swim team.  Annabelle Smith takes us through what it takes to be a synchronized diver and opens up on her surprising training routine.  And sports climbing coach Duncan Brown introduces us to one of the Olympic's newest sports. 

Ep 5: While preparations for Tokyo 2020 appear to be on track it was a very different story three years ago. The 2016 Games in Rio were put in serious risk after construction delays forced organisers to work around the clock. Journalist at the Rio Times Scott Salmon looks at the fallout from those Games and all the promises that failed to materialize. Last month Catriona Bisset set a new Australian record in the 800 metres, beating a record that's stood for 43 years. She opens up about her incredible journey and the tough times she's faced.   

EP 4: Sally Pearson is one of Australia's most decorated track and field athletes in a career that has spanned 16 years. The 100 metre hurdle specialist surprised the athletic world when she announced her immediate retirement from the sport due to injury. She joins us to reflect on a stellar career.  Known as 'murderball', wheelchair rugby is among the toughest and most brutal sports at Tokyo's Paralympic Games. Gold medalist from Rio and London, Chris Bond chatted to us about his love for the game and how he's preparing for next year. 

EP 3: Negative headlines dominated the second half of the World Aquatic Championships in Gwangju despite the Aussies performing strongly. We discuss the fallout with Australian Olympic Committee CEO Matt Carroll. Legendary sports broadcaster and veteran of five Olympic Games Tim Lane began his journey at the 1984 Los Angeles Games. We discuss his favourite moments from those Games and how his call of Cathy Freeman’s iconic 400 metre sprint made it onto a Qantas jet.   

EP 2: With Tokyo 2020 officially just under a year away we chat to two of Australia’s most successful Olympic champions Sally Pearson and Dawn Fraser. Pearson reveals her heartbreak from last year, expectations as a favourite and why her family might miss out on seeing her compete. Australian champion Dawn Fraser won four gold medals across three Olympics in the pool including one at the 1964 games in Tokyo.  We reminisce on her controversial moment from those games and what she thinks about a potential bid by Brisbane for 2032.

EP 1: The countdown is on! There's one year to go until Tokyo 2020 and Australia's preparations have well and truly begun. Ian Chesterman has been appointed Chef de Mission and he joins us in the studio to bring us the latest from the Aussie delegation. AFP Tokyo Correspondent Alastair Himmer will update us on the controversy surrounding Chinese gold medallist Sun Yang as well as previewing the major events and swimmers to look out for at the World Swimming Championships in South Korea.