Archery GB has confirmed that it has delivered a proposal for archery’s inclusion in the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games as an additional optional sport.
The organisation was joined by representatives from World Archery and Archery England to present a vision that would broaden the diversity of the sport programme at the Games and provide exciting opportunities for the growth of archery across the Commonwealth.
The bid focused on archery’s accessibility as a world-class spectator sport, its inclusivity and wide appeal as a grass-roots activity, and delivering a strong post-Games legacy.
It also included Aston Hall as a suggested competition venue.
Located less than two miles from the city centre and near to existing Games venue Villa Park, which will host the rugby sevens, the picturesque 17th-century building and grounds would provide excellent facilities and spotlight one of Birmingham’s popular historical landmarks.
The proposal raised the possibility of establishing an archery club at the location, plus plans to put in place a regional representative to drive archery’s development in the Midlands.
Further legacy plans could see equipment from the tournament distributed to local clubs and a programme established to develop coaching overseas.
The decision on whether additional optional sports may be included in the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games is expected in early 2019. No further information on archery’s proposal will be disclosed while that process is ongoing.
World Archery secretary general Tom Dielen said: “Archery’s proposal to Birmingham 2022 featured an inclusive sport engagement programme that would build on the excitement that the Commonwealth Games generate.”
“We see the Games as both a world-class competition and an opportunity to inspire future athletes across the Commonwealth.”
Archery GB CEO Neil Armitage said: “We are excited by the prospect of archery being added to the sport programme of the 2022 Commonwealth Games.”
“Projects are already running to connect archery with communities in Birmingham and the West Midlands, and inclusion would be a catalyst to expand these initiatives and inspire people to take up the sport.”
“Archery captured the imagination of British sporting fans during the London 2012 Olympic Games and we hope to recapture that spirit in 2022.”
