Seven new medal events at Gold Coast 2018 deliver world-first level playing field for women
For the first time ever in the history of a major multi-sport Games, there will be an equal number of medal events for men and women, as seven additional women’s events and categories across Weightlifting, Boxing and Cycling are confirmed on to the sports programme for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.
The major announcement – made by GC2018 Chairman Peter Beattie AC at the Commonwealth Games Federation’s Sports Summit in front of sporting leaders from 71 nations and territories of the Commonwealth – ensures that the next edition of the Games will have a 50/50 split of medal moments for men and women; a sporting first in the history of a major Games.
Louise Martin CBE, Commonwealth Games Federation President said:
“This is a significant step towards the realisation of the Commonwealth Games Federation’s vision for gender equality. Today’s announcement strengthens our long-standing relationship with IWF’s leadership as we work in close partnership to move the dial for gender equality within sport.”
Dr. Tamas Ajan, IWF Presdient said:
“The IWF always had an innovative leadership embracing gender equality. Weightlifting has been a pioneer in the recognition of women in sport by providing equal opportunities for both genders. The constitution recognized women weightlifting at its 1983 Congress while the Olympic Games included women events to the program of the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. Following the recent IWF Executive Board decision introducing the 8th bodyweight category and in line with the CGF “Transformation 2022″ it is with pride that hand in hand we will be able to stage a gender equal competition the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.”
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