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The Indian
archery contingent faced an unexpected challenge ahead of the World Archery
Youth Championships in Winnipeg, Canada, when sudden flight cancellations by
Air Canada left athletes stranded and at risk of missing the event.
What could have
been a devastating setback was turned around through the tireless, coordinated
efforts of the Archery Association of India (AAI), which worked relentlessly to
protect the aspirations of its
young athletes.
A multi-solution approach was
adopted—rebooking athletes on alternate connections and sending them in batches
so that every possible route was covered. In parallel, urgent discussions were
held with World Archery, securing special permission for Indian archers to
compete despite arriving a day late, even though the rules normally require
participation in official practice sessions.
“Our athletes represent the pride
of India, and it was unthinkable to let them miss out because of reasons beyond
their control. The entire association came together, worked with partners
across borders, and ensured that India’s flag will fly high in Winnipeg,”
said Shri Arjun Munda, President, Archery Association of India.
Behind the scenes, officials worked
around the clock—not only to move athletes across multiple routes, but also to
initiate talks with Air Canada to recover the costs of the cancelled tickets.
“This episode shows that sporting excellence requires strong institutional
support. While our athletes focus on performance, we stood shoulder-to-shoulder
with them, ensuring that no external obstacle could deny them their rightful
place in the Championships,” remarked Shri Virendra Sachdeva, Secretary
General, Archery Association of India.
The logistical effort was made
possible by seamless coordination within the federation. “It was inspiring
to witness the way our team handled this crisis. I must especially commend Mr.
Gunjan Abrol, Assistant Secretary, Archery Association of India, and his team
for their tireless work and coordination that made this possible. Their
persistence, even in the most difficult circumstances, has set a benchmark for
professionalism within Indian sport,” noted Mr. Joris Paulose, Treasurer,
Archery Association of India.
Reflecting on the intense few days,
Mr. Gunjan Abrol, Assistant Secretary, Archery Association of India, said:
“This was a test of resilience and teamwork. From negotiating with
airlines to working with World Archery for exemptions, every step mattered. Our
single goal was to make sure our young athletes reached Winnipeg ready to
compete—and I am proud that together, we achieved it.”
Through these
efforts, the Archery Association of India reaffirmed its commitment to
safeguarding the interests and dreams of its athletes—ensuring that no
challenge, however unexpected, can stand in the way of India’s archers on the
world stage.
The World
Archery Youth Championships 2025 will be held in Winnipeg, Canada, and our
archers are ready to compete.
For latest
updates follow: https://www.instagram.com/indianarchery
