World Archery is opening a new chapter. After twenty years under the presidency of Dr. Ugur Erdener, Greg Easton was elected head of the International Archery Federation on Wednesday in Gwangju, South Korea, where the World Championships are being held. It was a resounding victory, as he received 208 votes, compared to 96 for his rival Tom Dielen, who embodied continuity as outgoing Secretary General. This isn't the first time an Easton has been at the helm, as James Easton, the new president's father, previously held the position from 1989 to 2005. A nice nod to history.
Solid foundations
Aged 60, Greg Easton is the tenth President in the history of World Archery. Raised on archery, he began shooting arrows at the age of 10. In addition to being involved in the family business, founded by his grandfather in 1922 and specializing in archery equipment, he was a member of the World Archery Executive Board (2013-2022), a technical delegate at the Rio 2016 Games, and a member of the board of the American federation (2008-2015).
« I am deeply honored and grateful to have been elected President of World Archery., he said on Wednesday. Over the past few months, I have had the privilege of speaking with leaders from more than 110 countries. These conversations have reinforced my belief in the strength of our community and the incredible opportunities that lie ahead when we work together. (…) I believe that together we can bring great changes to World Archery, improve our sport and build on the solid foundations that Tom and Dr. Erdener have created for us. »
The defeated Tom Dielen played fair. This is a one-gold-medal sporting event, and Congress is always right. There was no photo finish, and the archery world must now unite behind Greg., he wrote on Facebook. The President and I will discuss our cooperation in the coming days, but I will ensure that the transition takes place under the best possible conditions. » The Belgian had received a number of public endorsements from the federations of Mexico, Germany and Iraq, but also from the presidents of the athletes' commissions, coaches and judges. However, this was not enough to stand up to comparison with his opponent.
"The potential of archery is considerable"
This summer, in an interview with Francs JeuxGreg Easton cited three priority areas for action during his term: supporting member associations and athletes; creating flexible and financially sustainable models for hosting events; increasing the involvement of federations in decision-making and communicating transparently.
« The potential of archery is considerable, but to fully exploit it requires strategic thinking and collaboration, he says. The key lies in better communication around athletes, strategic partnerships, and innovative formats that attract new generations without losing sight of the very essence of our sport. We can expand the reach of archery through digitally focused experiences, youth-oriented formats, and even the introduction of esports. »
Easton will be particularly expected to address the economic development of his sport given his background in the business world. He is the fifth IF president to represent the United States today, along with David Haggerty (ITF), Bob DeMarco (lacrosse), Beau Welling (curling), and Rob Stull, who will be elected to lead the UIPM in 2024.
