Will Costa Rica have an opportunity to back up their 2015 ISA World Surfing Games Gold Medal with a Gold on the Olympic stage? Photo: ISA/Dave Nelson
The International Surfing Association (ISA) has welcomed the decision by Tokyo 2020 to place Surfing on the shortlist of additional events for inclusion on the Sports Programme at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
Surfing will now be admitted to the second phase of the application process, during which the ISA will be required to present to Tokyo 2020. Tokyo 2020 will then propose the successful International Federations and events to the IOC before the final decision is made at the 129th IOC Session in Rio in August 2016.
With Surfing’s inclusion in the Olympics, Tia Blanco could have the chance to make her nation proud with a Gold Medal, as she did in the 2015 ISA World Surfing Games. Photo: ISA/Ben Reed
Speaking about Surfing’s shortlisting, ISA President, Fernando Aguerre, said:
“The ISA is delighted that Surfing continues to be considered for inclusion at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. We would like to thank and commend the IOC and Tokyo 2020 for providing us with this extraordinary opportunity to present the virtues and values of our sport. This is a significant milestone for our sport and gives us further motivation and resolve to make our Olympic dream become a reality.
“With its youthful values and engagement, Surfing has incredible global appeal and a unique and modern blend of high performance, style and culture – traits which we believe would add huge value to Tokyo 2020.
“We are energised and excited to present our case and to demonstrate how Surfing is aligned with Tokyo 2020’s core vision as the most innovative Games ever. With the new, cost-effective Surf parks that are revolutionising our sport, we are confident that this is the perfect time for Surfing to step up to the greatest sporting stage.”
Original Article Credits: ISA – Surfing Welcomes Tokyo 2020 Shortlisting, Continues Push for Olympic Inclusion