Namibian Olympic rower Maike Diekmann is relieved that the uncertainty of athletes' participation in next year's Olympic Games has been cleared. Her relief follows an announcement by the International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach, who said that all athletes who have qualified and quota places already assigned for the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 will remain unchanged and thus athletes are eligible to compete at next year's games. Earlier this year, Diekmann qualified for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic games, which have now been postponed to 2021. The South African based rower had to cut her Olympics preparations in Europe short, following the global outbreak of COVID 19, which affected all spheres of life, including sports. "I know for sure that I'll be going. I'm very excited about that. I've another year now to prepare for next year's games. I'm very excited to be working with my coach and improving my ranking and skills. Getting faster on water, just being a stronger and better athlete" Diekmann said. Diekmann urges other athletes during these trying times to stay strong and healthy. "Just know that all of us are in this together. We are all fighting and eventually when we get out of this, we are going to keep chasing our dreams. Good luck and keep supporting each"she added. She also appeals to those who are lucky enough to spend time with their families to appreciate it, as it shouldn't be taken for granted.