The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced the short list of sports recommended for inclusion in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Surfing along with baseball, karate, skateboarding and climbing have been recommended for Tokyo while bowling and squash (also nominees) failed to satisfy the requirements of reaching a global audience.
Fernando Aguerre — the President of the ISA —who has been fighting to have surfing’s inclusion into the Olympic Games released this statement in wake of Tokyo’s decision:
“Tokyo 2020s announcement today is an extraordinary moment for our sport and for the global surfing Community. The ISA has been riding an amazing wave in this journey for Olympic inclusion and we are thrilled that Tokyo 2020 recognizes the exceptional value and youthful lifestyle that surfing can bring to the Games. We are deeply grateful to Tokyo 2020 and the IOC for providing us with this wonderful opportunity. We’re immensely proud of our sport and what it would bring to the Games and we will continue to work closely with the Olympic Movement to achieve our Olympic dream.”
The World Surf League has welcomed the news and immediately released this statement:
“We are pleased that surfing has been recommended for inclusion in the 2020 Games by the Tokyo Olympic Organizers,” said Kieren Perrow, Commissioner of the World Surf League, the sport’s global professional governing body. “Surfing’s international growth over the past few years, its loyal and enthusiastic fans combined with its globally recognized athletes makes it an ideal sport to showcase on the Olympic stage. We’re excited to show billions of Olympic viewers the athleticism and artistry of these world-class surfers.”
Despite being a major step forward, it ain’t signed, sealed or delivered just yet. The IOC will make a final decision next August and there are still many questions that will need to be answered such as whether the WSL will allow their athletes to compete in a non-WSL sanctioned event. Plus there’s the matter of location – will it be wave pools or back to Niijima Island? By then Jules will be 32, Mick 38 and Kelly close to pushing 50.
We would love to hear your opinion.
