The International Olympic Committee voted today to include surfing and skateboarding in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
Groups involved in the effort immediately released statements praising the IOC’s decision.
International Surfing Association President Fernando Aguerre said, “After decades of hard work and dedication we are absolutely thrilled that Surfing will officially join the Olympic Sports Program at Tokyo 2020. Our Olympic dream has now become a reality and on behalf of the entire Surfing family I would like to express our sincere thanks to the IOC and Tokyo 2020 for their pioneering vision in making this historic decision possible.
“This is a game-changing moment for Surfing,” Aguerre continued. “We are already seeing increased popularity of the sport across the world and the Olympic Games will provide an incredible platform to further showcase Surfing and its core values. With its unique and modern blend of sport performance, style and youth culture, Surfing will help deliver something special to the Games,” he said.
The Tokyo 2020 Skateboarding Commission, a new collaboration between the Fédération Internationale de Roller Sports (FIRS) and the International Skateboarding Federation (ISF), also put out a statement.
“I’ve always believed that if skateboarding was properly protected and supported, its appearance on the Olympic stage could change the world,” said Gary Ream, Tokyo 2020 Skateboarding Commission Chairman and ISF President. “We’re excited to have that opportunity in Tokyo thanks to the IOC’s Agenda 2020 and the creation of the Tokyo 2020 Skateboarding Commission.”
The Tokyo 2020 Skateboarding Commission was formed under the guidance of the International Olympic Committee to ensure skateboarding competitions will be delivered at the highest level at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
The World Surf League also jumped on the Olympic news, and put out its own statement.
“Congratulations to ISA President, Fernando Aguerre, and the ISA on their successful bid to have the sport included in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games,” said Paul Speaker, CEO of the World Surf League. “This is a huge moment for professional surfing and further highlights surfing’s rise as a global participatory and spectator sport.
“As home to the world’s best surfing, the WSL looks forward to working with the ISA to ensure that the sport is showcased in the best possible manner and with the world’s best athletes. It is awesome that our incredible athletes will have the opportunity to showcase their talents and skills to the global Olympic audience and compete for their countries.”
