NMA joins global effort to shape athletics future

The CNMI’s Zarinae Sapong, is seen here racing in the 100m qualifying run in the 2019 IAAF World Athletics Championships at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, Qatar. The CNMI does not only compete in world events, but has also joined a campaign that would set the future strategy for athletics across the globe. (Contributed Photo)

The Northern Marianas Athletics has expressed its full support for World Athletics’ unprecedented campaign that would set the future strategy for athletics across the globe.

The campaign, dubbed “Global Conversation for the Future of Athletics,” offers the opportunity for all those with an active interest in the sport to share their opinion on the steps that need to be taken by World Athletics and its 214 member-federations, including NMA.

The result of the feedback, once compiled, will be the establishment of the World Plan for World Athletics 2022-30, which will set out the roadmap for the growth and development of athletics during this eight-year period.

“NMA is excited to be part of the World Athletics Plan to strategize our sport into the future. The past 12 months have been challenging and we want to include the views of everyone in these discussions, every input is important to the future of the sport of athletics. This is your chance to have your say in our future.”

For NMA, the outreach campaign offers a unique opportunity to find key areas of growth for the sport in CNMI. Over the coming weeks, the organization will arrange a group of initiatives with key stakeholders designed to encourage and facilitate unprecedented levels of feedback.

This includes participation in a global survey on athletics. Whether an athlete, coach, sponsor, volunteer, or a fan, NMA wants to hear your perspective on the future of the sport, with all areas under discussion. To give your views, please click the following link https://surveyhub.deloitte.co.uk/wix/p402654971948.aspx

The compilation of the feedback and ongoing outreach will be led by World Athletics’ World Plan Working Group, chaired by Willie Banks, and supported by all member federations. The World Plan will then be finalized in the Summer 2021 by the World Athletics Council before being put forward for approval by the World Athletics member federations at the 53rd World Athletics Congress in November 2021.

On the launch of the outreach campaign, World Athletics President Seb Coe said “Today is a monumental day in the future of global Athletics. As the international governing body, we want to base our future plans on the experiences and knowledge of our vast Athletics community, and it is only right that we give everyone with an active interest in our sport the chance to give their views and insights.”

“We are in a remarkable period of change in society, and one that presents challenges but also new opportunities for Athletics. By taking stock and listening to all those involved with Athletics at every level, we can ensure that together, we are ready to fulfil such opportunities and continue to strive,” he added. (NMA)