November IAU Athletes Commission meeting
On Saturday 7 November the IAU Athletes Commission recently had a very productive Zoom conference with IAU President Nadeem Khan.
The meeting was attended by members of the commission from multiple time zones ranging from 1am in Auckland, 8pm in Manilla, 5:30pm in Calcutta to 7am in Cincinatti.
Nadeem gave the Commission an update on the current news regarding the IAU and the affect the global pandemic has had on the ultra running community.
Other items on the agenda were:
- The success of the IAU 6hr Virtual Global Solidarity run held at the end of August and how it was decided that due the positive impact it had on athletes worldwide, it would become an annual event to be held over the third weekend of March each year.
- The relationship between the members of the commission, athletes and their respective federations and how that relationship has developed since the establishment of the Athletes Commission.
- Looking ahead to IAU championships planned for 2021 and what possible contingency plans can be put in place should the pandemic continue to restrict international travel. Bearing in mind that the athletes health remains a priority.
- The future of virtual races and how they have become a popular platform to keep athletes motivated. How the IAU can use the Global Solidarity Run to promote the sport and somehow use the concept to help disadvantaged communities.
The floor was then opened to the members of the Commission and they were given the opportunity to raise any topics for discussion. Everyone was able to share how they have been able to cope with the current crises and maintain motivation.
The Athletes Commission continues to maintain the link between athletes, federations and the IAU and the Commission prides itself in being the voice of the athlete.
Wayne Botha
