Every year, May 7 is observed and celebrated as World Athletics Day. The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), formerly known as the International Amateur Athletic Federation, established this day as part of its social responsibility project, ‘Athletics for a Better World’. The IAAF strives to increase youth participation in athletics and spread awareness of the importance of fitness.
There are five types of competitive sports in which athletes compete: running, jumping, swimming, throwing, and walking. In the world of athletics, youngsters develop qualities like teamwork, leadership, self-confidence, and discipline.
Sports are meant to be an integral part of society and to keep everyone healthy and fit. Around the world, World Athletics organizes a variety of sporting events and competitions for people of every age group.
Significance of World Athletics Day
World Athletics Day gives schools, colleges, and other educational institutions a chance to promote their children’s interest in other sports. The generation needs to be educated about the importance of sports and to make athletics the number one participation sport in schools everywhere. The Day creates a link between youth, sports, and environmental conservation.
World Athletics Day aims to promote the spirit of participation in athletics among the youth and to understand the importance of staying fit and healthy.
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Theme of World Athletics Day
The first World Athletics Day celebrated the centennial edition of the Olympic games in Atlanta. Every year World Athletics day is observed with a particular theme. The theme for World Athletics Day 2022 has not yet been announced.
History of World Athletics Day
The first World Athletics Day was observed in 1996 and was initiated by IAAF President Primo Nebiolo. Founded in Stockholm, Sweden on 17th July 1912, the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) organizes various sports events and athletics. The IAAF is the international governing body for athletics. The name of the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) was changed to the International Association of Athletics Federations in 2001. It was changed again to World Athletics in 2019. Since then, the World Athletics Federation and IAAF have been organizing and sponsoring sports events in every school and college with the ultimate focus on fitness and health.
Objectives of World Athletics Day
To increase the popularity of sports, especially athletics, among children and youth.
The Day gives athletics a central role in school and college sports programs.
To encourage children and teenagers in schools to take part in athletics.
To establish a link between youth, sport, and environmental conservation.
To promote sports activities around the globe.