Men's speedskater Joji Kato and women's speedskater Tomomi Okazaki are among the athletes who will represent Japan at the world single distance championships next month, the Japan Skating Federation said Wednesday.
Hiroyasu Shimizu, who holds the world record in the men's 500 meters, will also participate in the March 3-6 tournament in Inzell, Germany, as will Sayuri Osuga, who came third in the women's 500 in a recent World Cup event.
Up to two spots for the Turin Winter Olympics next February can be secured by Japanese who finish in the top three in the 500, 1,000 and 1,500 at the four-day meet.