The ongoing preparations for the Tokyo Olympics by the Indian archers bolstered when World Archery, the sport’s global body, conditionally lifted the suspension on India within a week of the elections of the Archery Association of India(AAI).
World Archery further instructed the AAI to change its constitution regarding sportspersons’ membership, resolve operational issues and prepare a strategic plan. Along with that, AAI was also asked to submit quarterly reports on the progress of these issues.
World Archery said in a statement,
“World Archery has conditionally lifted the suspension of the Archery Association of India following elections in New Delhi on 18 January. The decision was made by executive board postal vote.”
The statement further informed that the Indian will now be able to participate in World Archery events as it read,
“Indian archers are allowed to compete in World Archery events as of Thursday 23 January 2020. The federation has been instructed to update its constitution to clarify athlete membership, develop a strategic plan and resolve other governance issues. A progress report is required every three months.”
The Indian archers were only permitted to participate in global events as neutral athletes under the flag of World Archery as the AAI was suspended since August 5 which directly affected their chances of qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics. However, after fresh developments, the Indian archers can now compete under the Indian flag.
Commenting on the fresh development and lifting of the ban on AAI, World Archery secretary general Tom Dielen said that he is of the belief that this will be the beginning of a well-governed association in India. He added that the global body will help wherever necessary, to develop the strategy that will help AAI accomplish smooth working. He further directed the Indian archers to focus on the quadrennial event which is just six months away.
India next plays in the Indoor World Series in Las Vegas within three weeks. India has so far secured three male and one female quota places for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
