AFI nominated for World Athletics' Member Federations Award

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has been nominated for the World Athletics' Member Federations Award.

The AFI is among the six national federations that have been nominated for the prestigious award ahead of the World Athletics Awards 2024, scheduled for December 1. The winner of the award will be announced on the same day.

The shortlisted federations were nominated by each of the six area associations. The AFI has been nominated by the Asian Athletics Association.

The AFI has been nominated for its exceptional work in the Coaches Education Programme, though which more than 3000 coaches have completed the AFI Pre Level 1 course, and the Kids' Athletics programme, which saw more than 4000 annual participants and the introduction of Kids Javelin.

The Member Federations Award recognizes a national federation, affiliated to the World Athletics.

"The Member Federations Award recognizes a Member Federation that has distinguished itself in its accomplishments throughout the year and, as a result, positively contributed to the growth and profile of the sport," the World Athletics stated in its release.

Here are the six nominees, listed alphabetically:

Ghana (Ghana Athletics Association, Africa)

In March, Ghana's capital city of Accra held the African Games, where winners included the host nation's Joseph Amoah in the 200m, and Rose Amoanimaa Yeboah and Evans Yamoah in the high jump.

The federation in Ghana has been very active in the Western Region and has ensured the organization of major competitions in the area.

India (Athletics Federation of India, Asia)

The Athletics Federation of India further developed its Coaches Education Programme in 2024. Offering three progressive courses, the programme is designed to elevate the quality of athletics coaching across the country. Since its launch, more than 3000 coaches have completed the AFI Pre Level 1 course, making a significant impact on grassroots coaching.

The federation is also working to broaden the reach of its Kids' Athletics programme. Notably, its U14 program has seen significant success, with more than 4000 annual participants and the introduction of Kids Javelin.

Paraguay (Federacion Paraguaya de Atletismo, South America)

Federacion Paraguaya de Atletismo will complete the first half of its second strategic plan in 2024, with four areas of work – events, collaborators, public and alliances – being implemented.

Athletes from Paraguay won an unprecedented number of South American Championships medals, including one gold each at U20 and U23 level, while training for schoolteachers was organized as part of Kids' Athletics. Other achievements include the organization of JEEN (National School Games) and the South American School Games, collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and the Paraguay Olympic Committee, and continued 4x100m relay development.

Portugal (Portuguese Athletics Federation, Europe)

Federacao Portuguesa de Atletismo organized three major events in 2024: the Dynamic New Athletics (DNA) U20 Clubs in Pombal, the European Throwing Cup in Leiria and the ECCC Cross Country in Albufeira, with a participation record at the latter and strong online exposure at all three events.

Portugal also achieved an increase in club numbers and total members, with 145 new clubs and more than 1400 new members, while the nation's athletes gained one medal at the Olympic Games and three medals at the European Championships.

Solomon Islands (Athletic Solomons, Oceania)

Athletic Solomons had a successful year in 2024, following its hosting of the Pacific Games in November 2023 and the nation's involvement in the Sport Inclusion Australia Programme.

The Pacific Games marked the largest gathering of its kind ever hosted in the country and led to significant improvements in sports facilities as well as a sense of unity and national pride, encouraging more youth participation in athletics. The Sport Inclusion Australia Programme, in partnership with Oceania Athletics, aimed to create inclusive opportunities for people with disabilities. In addition, the Kids' Athletics program in the Solomon Islands has made significant strides, focusing on promoting physical activity, inclusivity and overall well-being among children.

United States (USA Track & Field, NACAC)

US athletes achieved 34 medals at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, securing the top spot on the medal table, with performances including world records by Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone in the 400m hurdles and by the mixed 4x400m team. The team's Olympic performance in Paris was driven by a diverse range of medals in sprints, jumps and throws.

The federation also showcased its strength by achieving first place in the medal tables at the World Athletics U20 Championships Lima 24 and the World Athletics Indoor Championships Glasgow 24. One of the key factors behind these successes has been the implementation of an athletics development program that covers all categories and events.