What's the Future of Archery in the 2030 Commonwealth Games?
The Commonwealth Games have always been a spectacle of diverse sports bringing nations together, and the upcoming 2030 event in Ahmedabad is no exception. The anticipation is palpable as archery, an ancient and skillful sport, is under assessment to be included as an optional sport. Having not been featured since India last hosted the Games in 2010, where the young prodigy Deepika Kumari made headlines, archery enthusiasts are hopeful for its grand return.
Ahmedabad: Host City with History
Choosing Ahmedabad, also known as Amdavad, as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games adds a historical touch. This vibrant city boasts a rich cultural heritage, making it an exciting backdrop for this international sporting event.
The Last Shot: Archery’s Historical Presence
Archery was last seen in the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, 2010. The event was memorable not just for its fierce competition but also for India’s remarkable success. A 16-year-old Deepika Kumari took home the gold in the recurve women’s event, marking a significant moment in Commonwealth Games history. Prior to that, archery made its mark in 1982 when the Games took place in Brisbane, Australia.
What’s Next: Potential for Inclusion
Currently, eight core sports are already confirmed for the 2030 Games, and a selection process kicking off next month will decide the inclusion of up to nine more. Archery stands alongside 14 other optional sports vying for their place, showcasing its potential to engage and add to the Games’ dynamism. According to World Archery, the selection process will be rigorous, but archery, with its colorful history, stands a good chance.
The Indian Archery Renaissance
It’s not just nostalgia driving archery’s potential inclusion. Indian archery, especially in the compound category, has flourished over the past decades. The recent launch of the professional Archery Premier League in October is testament to the sport’s growing popularity and the talent booming on Indian soil.
Challenges and Hopes
While archery won’t feature in the upcoming scaled-back 2026 Glasgow Games, the spotlight remains on Ahmedabad. The reduced 2026 Games, featuring only ten sports, highlights the competitive nature of sport selection. However, the Indian archery community remains optimistic, eager for another spotlight moment on the Commonwealth stage.
As the selection starts and the anticipation builds, only time will tell if archery succeeds in making its much-awaited return to the Commonwealth Games in 2030.
