ASB MAGAZINE: In these unprecedented and challenging times, Surfing Australia wholeheartedly supports the AOC’s position that it is untenable to assemble an Australian Olympic Team in July, for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.
Surfing Australia Chair Layne Beachley says “Given the current global circumstances, we support the recent decision made by the AOC, and appreciate they’ve put the health and wellbeing of our athletes, coaches, families, support staff, and community first. We also respect the IOC process, in stating more time is needed to work through the enormous amount of complexities, which will lead to further clarity about a postponement date. For this, we’re grateful for the mutual intent shared and the tireless work from all the key stakeholders involved. Our focus will be to work closely with and support the International Surfing Association in considering solutions if required.”
Surfing Australia National High Performance Director Kim Crane says “In talking with our provisionally qualified Olympic athletes, staff and wider surfing community, there’s genuine respect, appreciation and mindfulness of the scale and impact of this global crisis, and collectively we recognise this decision transcends sport. Whilst it is bitterly disappointing, it is absolutely the right decision. When the time’s right, we’ll be flexible, adaptable, creative and innovative, bouncing back ready to readjust our plans and preparation.”
Surfing’s Australian Olympic Team Head Coach Bede Durbidge says “Our efforts are focused on making sure the athletes are supported, whilst processing these fast-moving changes in both their Olympic and World Surf League environments. This is a tough time for everyone in our community and we must all lean in and support each other. Across our wider team, the High Performance Program staff will continue to lead and work hard to play their role in slowing down the COVID-19 virus by shutting down and adjusting all activity across the high performance network; making sure our people are protected, supported and connected in their home environments.”
VIA PRESS RELEASE
