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Friday May 12, 11:57 AMEmperor, empress greet Olympic gold medalist Arakawa at palace(Kyodo) _ Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko praised Turin Olympic gold medalist Shizuka Arakawa and other high-ranking athletes at the Turin games in a reception Friday at the Imperial Palace."I believe that many people felt deeply touched and encouraged by your performance," the emperor said in the Rensui dining room of the palace where he met the athletes. The 45 people invited Friday included Japan team captain Tomomi Okazaki, who placed fourth in the women's 500-meter speed skating event, and alpine skier Kentaro Minagawa, who also placed fourth in the men's slalom. After the emperor greeted the athletes, they chatted with Crown Prince Naruhito and Prince Akishino as well as the imperial couple in a happy atmosphere. Recounting a conversation with the emperor, Arakawa told reporters, "When I said I would like to work for children and future skaters, 'His Majesty said, 'I hope you do the best.'" Arakawa saved Japan from coming home empty-handed with her triumphant gold-winning performance in February at the games, where she became famous overnight for her trademark Ina Bauer maneuver. She said Sunday she will turn professional and perform in ice shows. The members of Team Aomori, the quintet of female curlers who became popular across Japan for their performance, were also present at the reception. Team Aomori beat Canada and Britain at the Games and almost upset eventual gold medal winner Sweden before finishing seventh with a 4-5 record. |
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