"VAN" (Sports Desk) :: Miraitowa and Someity have been unveiled as the names of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games mascots respectively as the two characters made their official debut at a launch event today. The mascots, chosen by a vote of schoolchildren across Japan, were announced to the world in February but had not been named until the ceremony at the Tokyo Midtown Hibiya complex. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and Organising Committee President Yoshirō Mori revealed the names during the event. “Miraitowa” combines the Japanese words for future and eternity, while “Someity” takes its name from the “someiyoshino” cherry blossom variety, which Tokyo 2020 say resonates with “so mighty” in English. "I think a very worthy name has been picked not only for Tokyo but for Japan as well as the Olympics and Paralympics," Koike said at the ceremony. Hundreds of people attended the launch event, where the mascots "teleported" from Hibiya to Asakusa, the centre of old Tokyo. They were then seen on a boat cruised down the Sumida River, waving to fans and children who had lined the route. he blue and white checked Olympic mascot is a character which “embodies both old tradition and new innovation”, according to its profile. Miraitowa is described as having a strong sense of justice and being very athletic, while it also has the ability to move anywhere "instantly". Someity, adorned with a pink checked pattern, is a "cool character with cherry blossom tactile sensors and super powers". Organisers claim it embodies Paralympic athletes that "demonstrate superhuman power". The announcement comes as Tokyo 2020 prepares to celebrate two years to go until the Olympics open on Tuesday (July 24).