ATHLETES’COMMISSION
2023 ELECTIONSCANDIDATES2LIST OF CANDIDATESValerie Adams (NZL)  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  . 4Lia Apostolovski (SLO)  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  8
Samory Uiki Bandeira Fraga (BRA)  . 10
Diego Garcia Carrera (ESP)  .  .  .  .  . 12
Germán Chiaraviglio (ARG) .  .  .  .  .  .  14
Adam Gemili (GBR)  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  . 16
Majd Ghazal (SYR) .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  18
Renaud Lavillenie (FRA) .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  20
Halimah Nakaayi (UGA)  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  22
Airinė Palšytė (LTU)  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  24
Aisha Praught-Leer (JAM)  .  .  .  .  .  .  26
Su Bingtian (CHN)  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  28
Jasmine Todd (USA) .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  30

THE ATHLETES’VOICE MATTERS.
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3As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

Rilwan Mohamed Alowonle Jr (NGR) .  6

Why I am running for the election:
Since first picking up a shot put in a school sports
competition at the age of 14, athletics has been mypassion. The sport has hauled me out of poverty andtaken me all around the world to places unimaginable
as a girl growing up at the bottom of the worldin New Zealand. It has fed my soul and given me
mind-blowing opportunities, for which I’ll be forevergrateful.

VALERIE
ADAMS
NE W ZE AL AND

MY O B JECTI VES :TO BE A STRONG VOICEFOR ALL ATHLETESAROUND THE WORLDAND TO CONTINUE TO
GROW THIS AMAZINGSPORT OF ATHLETICS.

For this reason, I have taken my role serving on theWorld Athletics Athletes’ Commission very seriously.
To be able to represent the athletes’ concerns has
been a privilege, and I acknowledge that throughthe Commission to finally be able to vote on World
Athletics Council decisions is something whichshould never be taken for granted. The sport isnothing without its athletes.
With more than 20 years competing on theinternational stage, I recognise the unique appealof athletics. It is a wonderful, genuinely global sportwith so much to be gained from being a part of.
However, I also understand it needs to undergo
significant changes to retain engagement and its
relevancy in the modern world.
The sport should not therefore rest on its laurels,
and I believe by representing the athletes I cancontribute to its better future. As a recently retired
athlete I believe I have the best of both worlds
thanks to my innate knowledge of the sport but
also the fact I now have more time and energy toserve diligently in the role.
I’m proud of time with the Athletes’Commission.
We accomplished change and offered structured
feedback on a number of key subject matters, andshould I be re-elected I promise I - along with therest of the team - will continue to fight the necessary
battles on behalf of the athletes.
I will be both active and reactivate to help pushboundaries for the betterment of the sport.
Sometimes change is hard to implement, and you
need to be persistent, persevere and act ‘like a dog
with a bone’ in order to ensure changes are made.
Qualities I believe I demonstrated consistently
throughout my athletics career.

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In summary, I believe passionately I have so much togive to the role. For many generations decisions weretaken without an athletes’voice. So, I’m enthused at
the thought of continuing the work we’ve put in place.
I believe another term on the Athletes’ Commission
would help further implement the changes we havealready made and ensure a smoother transition
before I step down and hand over the reins to thenext generation of Commission members.

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:ENGLISH, TONGAN
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :SHOT PUT
TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:HARD WORKINGCARINGPASSIONATESport career and athletics
achievements:
2008/2012 Olympic Gold, 2016 Olympic Silver,2020 Olympic Bronze. 4x World Champion andIndoor Champion. PB 21.24m

Professional Career:Self EmployedSport Administration:
World Athletics Athletes’ Commission, Oceania
Athletics Athletes’ Commission, Athletics New
Zealand Athletes’ Commission

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5As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

On a personal note, I’m also proud to play my partin representing athletes in the Oceania region. I lovethe fact athletics is such a global sport but I’m a huge
advocate of the Oceania athletes who consistently
punch above their weight to excel on the global
stage. As a New Zealander of Polynesian heritage
this is something of which I am immensely proud.

Why I am running for the election:
As fellow athletes who have dedicated our lives
to the sport of athletics, we know firsthand theincredible commitment and sacrifices that go into
becoming a world-class competitor. Although every
single one of us invest countless hours and resources
into the sport, I have noticed that outside of the
Olympic Games, the sport of athletics is not given
the same level of support and recognition as othermajor sports. I believe that for the sake of the sport
and to make justice to the efforts of the athletes,
this needs to change. That’s why I’m running for theWorld Athletics Athletes’ Commission.

RILWANMOHAMEDALOWONLE JRNIGERIA

Athletics is the most viewed and popular sport in
the Olympics, and as such, I believe that popularity
should be sustained beyond the two weeks that
occur every four years. As a member of the Athletes’
Commission, I will use my position to fight for theathletes and ensure they receive the support they
deserve. For example, I plan to work on making
competitions more accessible and engaging to thefans, which will help grow the sport and generate
revenue.
I believe it is critical for this revenue to be sharedwith the athletes who have worked hard to makethese competitions possible.

MY O B JECTI VES :I WANT TO IMPROVE
THE SUPPORT,RECOGNITION, AND
FUNDING FOR ATHLETESBY INCREASING THE
SPORTS’ POPULARITY
BEYOND THE OLYMPICGAMES.

In addition to my athletic career, I work as a marketingand strategy consultant for Deloitte, the largest
professional services firm in the world. My backgroundas a consultant has given me the skills to thinkstrategically and develop creative solutions todifficult problems. I will bring this expertise to the
Athletes’ Commission and work with my fellow
members to develop thoughtful solutions to improve
the sport of athletics.
If elected, I will work tirelessly to ensure:• Better funding for athletes at all levels of the
sport• Increased promotion of athletics as well as theindividual athletes to generate more interest andsupport• Greater support for athletes’ well-being, bothon and off the competition site

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facilities

for

Together, we can make athletics the sport it deserves
to be. Thank you for your consideration, and I ask
for your support in this election.
Empowering Athletes, Transforming Athletics: Join
the Athlete-Driven Campaign!

Sport career and athletics
achievements:

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:ENGLISH
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :400M HURDLES,
4X400 RELAY

2018 Commonwealth Games 5th place finisher.
2018 All-African Championships 3rd place finisher

TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:

Professional Career:

DETERMINEDOPEN-MINDEDCOMPOSEDManagement Consultant

Sport Administration:
N/A

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7As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

• Improved and consistentcompetition and trainingWhy I am running for the election:
The candidacy to participate and work in the
Athletes’ Commission is for me a natural decision
as it is something that directly concerns me as an
athlete, as well as it is combining two of my biggest
interests: athletics and the study of law.
As an athlete I recognise the importance of theestablishment of the safeguarding mechanism, as aconsequence of many verbal, physical, sexual andpsychological abuses in sports. Athletes deserve
protection as well as education about the athletes’
rights.

LIA
APOSTOLOVSKISLOVENIAMY O B JECTI VES :I WILL STAND FOR
THE SAFEGUARDINGMECHANISM, EQUALOPPORTUNITIES TOCOMPETE, WOMEN’SHEALTH, SUPPORT OF
TRANSITION FROM THE
JUNIOR TO SENIOR
CATEGORY, EDUCATION
AND PROTECTION OF
ATHLETES’ RIGHTS.

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More and more people are talking about health in
sports, and especially women’s health is becominga relevant issue. What was once a taboo is now
a crucial part in the training process. Therefore
the importance of women’s health and sports
gynaecology in (elite) sports is something thatdeserves its voice. I strongly believe this voice
should come from an athlete and a woman.
Coming from a small country, Slovenia, without a
tradition of a higher rank of international competitions
at home, I experience a difference in opportunities
to equally compete and collect world ranking points.
I will strongly advocate for equal opportunities for
all athletes, regardless of the country of their origin,
to compete and collect world ranking points toqualify for World championships, Olympic games,
Area championships, etc.
As a young athlete I understand the struggle of thetransition from the junior to the senior category
and the importance of different kinds of support
during this period. I myself come from an athleticfamily, who understand my love and devotion toathletics, and provide support in difficult times.
Unfortunately, I regularly notice that other talented
athletes have less of this support in their environment,
and I believe that adequate support outside of theirprimary environment is necessary and should beproperly organised.

Sport career and athletics
achievements:
World Championships finalist (Oregon 2022),
European Championships finalist (Munich 2022),
European u23 bronze medalist (Tallinn 2021), 9thplace European Indoor Championships (Torun 2021),
national u23 records holder

Professional Career:

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:SLOVENIAN,ENGLISH
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :HIGH JUMP
TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:DETERMINEDRELIABLE
EMPATHETIC

Professional athlete, slovenian armed forces - sports
unit, law student

Sport Administration:
N/A

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9As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

In conclusion, I’m fully committed to safety insport aiming to educate and protect athletes
from harassment and abuse of all forms. I am readyto dedicate my energy to raise awareness amonggroups that need special attention like youth, girls,
women and other vulnerable athletes.

Why I am running for the election:
The athletes’ commission is an important bodywithin World Athletics and as such it should haverepresentatives from all the regions of the world.
I want to be a representative because I believe
South America needs a voice on the matters andaffairs of the administration and I also believe I canbe that voice to bring the concerns, suggestions
and issues of the athletes in the area.

SAMORYUIKI BANDEIRAFRAGABRA ZIL

MY O B JECTI VES :BEING A VOICE AND
REPRESENTATIVE FOR
ALL ATHLETES THATLIVE IN SOUTH AMERICA.

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Olympic Games (Tokyo 2020). World Indoor
Championship (Belgrade 2022)

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:

PORTUGUESE,ENGLISH ANDSPANISH

Professional Career:
Graduated in international relations with a double
minor in international business and political science.

ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :LONG JUMPSport Administration:
Confederação Brasileira de Atletismo (CBAT)TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:PERSEVERANCEDISCIPLINEPATIENCE

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As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

Sport career and athletics
achievements:

Why I am running for the election:
Dear Colleague,
Thank you very much for reading these lines andgetting involved in the future of athletics.
My main goal is that nothing is left unsaid about whatathletes think. That the athletes’ voice is present in
the decision-making centers, because we athletes
are the main actors of this movie.
In recent years, we have seen how the aspirations ofmany athletes have been blocked when participation
quotas, championships and even entire specialties
have been reduced.

DIEGO GARCIACARRERASPAINMY O B JECTI VES :TO ENSURE THAT ALL
ATHLETES HAVE A
PLACE IN THE NEW
ATHLETICS.

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It is no secret that events such as the 200m, the10,000m, the triple jump, the hammer throw or
the race walk are not in the future plans of manyadvisors of our institutions.
However, there are other ways to face suppression,
to face the elimination of athletes from their habitat.
The transformation that athletics needs begins
by placing athletes at the center of the debate.
And from there it will be much easier to find a way
forward together.
I am committed to making the athletes’ voice heard.
Best wishes,
DiegoOlympic Diploma in Tokio2020. 2 times European
Medallist. 4 Participations at World Championships(2015, 2017, 2019, 2022). Medallist at WorldChampionships U18 (2013) and U20 (2014)

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:ENGLISH, SPANISH
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :Professional Career:Business Administration and Management Graduated.
Master Degree in Financial Markets. Professional
Music Conservatory GraduatedSport Administration:
Experience as Sports Director in Finetwork Madrid
Marcha, World Athletics Race Walking Tour Goldmeeting (Madrid, Spain. 2022, 2023)

20K RACE WALKTH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:PASSIONATENONCONFORMISTFAIR

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As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

Sport career and athletics
achievements:

Why I am running for the election:GERMÁNCHIARAVIGLIOA RGENTINAMY O B JECTI VES :STRENGTHEN THE VOICEOF ATHLETES WITHINTHE ORGANIZATION
AND BRING SOUTH
AMERICAN ATHLETESCLOSER TO WORLD
ATHLETICS.

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As a passionate athlete and lover of track andfield, I believe it would be an honour and a great
responsibility to contribute to the developmentof our sport from an athlete’s perspective. I am apassionate athlete and lover of track and field. My
specialty is pole vaulting, and I have had the honourof competing in three Olympic Games, four WorldChampionships of Athletics, and four Pan American
Games. Additionally, I have been actively involved
in my sports community, from organizing events toleading activities in my Olympic Committee Athletes
Commission. With my experience and commitment, I
believe I can be a valuable contributor to the World
Athletics Athletes’ Commission and help represent
the voices of athletes from all regions.
My interest in being a part of the Athletes’
Commission stems from my desire to represent
and defend the interests of my fellow athletes, to be
an active agent in the development and promotionof policies and programs that benefit our athletes,
and to collaborate with the organization to ensurethat athletes have a voice and are heard at all levelsof decision-making.
Furthermore, I am motivated by the values promoted
by World Athletics, such as excellence, respect,
integrity, and solidarity. I firmly believe that, as
athletes, we have a unique responsibility and valuable
perspective that can contribute significantly to theorganization’s mission and vision.
Moreover, as a South American athlete, I have aparticular interest in representing the voice of
my region on the Athletes’ Commission. As you
know, our region has produced numerous Worldand Olympic champions in track and field, but wealso face unique challenges in terms of resources,
infrastructure, and support. I believe I can provide a
valuable perspective on these issues and collaborate
with the organization to design and implement
programs that help our athletes reach their fullpotential.

Sport career and athletics
achievements:
Finalist, Rio 2016 OG in the Pole Vault Event.
Finalist, World Athletics Championships- Beijing,
China, 2015. Silver Medal, Pan Am

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:

SPANISH,ENGLISH, ITALIAN,
PORTUGUESE.
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :POLE VAULT
TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:

Professional Career:
IAAF Level 1 Coaches Education & Certification
System. 2012, Mar del Plata, Argentina. Diploma in
Crypto- Economics, Blockchain, Cryptocurrencies& Smart C ontracts.2019, ITBARESILIENCEPASSION
EMPATHY

Sport Administration:
Diploma in Sports Management, UGR (Universidad delGran Rosario). Diploma in Sports Entity Management,
ŉ Fundación Leo Messi” . 2016 Facultad de Derecho

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As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

In summary, I believe that my education, experience,commitment, and motivation make me an ideal
candidate to be part of the World Athletics Athletes’
Commission and to represent the voice of SouthAmerican athletes. I appreciate the opportunity topresent my candidacy and remain available to provide
any further information or answer any questions.

Why I am running for the election:
It would be a great privilege to represent athletes,
influence the culture and to continue to push forchange within World Athletics, ensuring that athletes
are at the heart of everything we do.
I am super passionate about giving athletes a voice
and will always work to make sure that we areprioritised. I am a highly organised, efficient andproactive individual who is also transparent andaccountable, which I feel are important qualities
for someone in this role.

ADAM
GEMILIG R E AT B RITAIN &N OT HERN IREL AND

M Y O B JECTI VES :REPRESENT THE VOICE
OF THE ATHLETE
MAKING SURE
ATHLETES’ INTERESTS
ARE ALWAYS PUT FIRSTWHILST HELPING BUILDA SUSTAINABLE FUTUREFOR OUR SPORT.

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I believe that sport should always be athlete-driven
and would love the opportunity to make sure thishappens. I am a critical thinker who will aim to findthe best solutions to constantly improve, grow anddeliver the best services for people. I will always
fight for what I believe in, act with integrity andwill not hesitate to speak up if I see an injusticeor something I do not believe is beneficial to myfellow athletes.
I have been lucky enough to be a professional athlete
in this sport for 11 years, spanning three Olympic
Games and can offer a wealth of experience andknowledge. I have had the privilege of working withmany athletes, coaches and governing bodies acrossmultiple generations; helping me to understandhow to engage and respond accordingly to people
regardless of background, culture, age or gender.
Over the years, many of my peers have trusted
me to be the bridge between the Governing Body
and Athlete. In my current position for the British
Olympic Association Athletes Commission, I have
had influence in helping Team GB take athletes toboth Summer and Winter Olympic Games. I havebeen given this amazing opportunity to share a talent
I have dedicated my career to building and I would
love to continue to help influence and shape thesport going forwards, both during and post-career.

Thank you for your consideration.
Yours Faithfully

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:ENGLISH
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :100M, 200M, 4X100
RELAY

Adam

Sport career and athletics
achievements:
World Junior Champion 100m, 4x European
Championship Gold 200m - 4x100m, 2x
Commonwealth Silver 100m - 4x100m, WorldChampionships 4x100m 1x Gold 1x Silver 1xBronze, 4th Olympic Games 200m, 4th & 5th WorldChampionships 200m

TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:DILIGENTFRIENDLYRELIABLE

Professional Career:
N/ASport Administration:
BOA Athletes Commission 2016 - present, UKA
Athletes Commission 2020 - present, The Athletes
Association Sprint Representative 2020 - present

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As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

A motto that I live by is, “talent is nature and characteris choice”. It is the role models in early life who you
look up to that can both inspire and nurture yourpassions in life. I have been given this amazing
opportunity to share a talent I have dedicated mycareer to building and it is in my character to want
to give back and nurture the future of our sport.

Why I am running for the election:
Being one of the players of the countries that want
to develop the game of athletics in their country, andthis geographical area and the countries around it
need a lot of technical, administrative and technicalwork and scientific sports development to raise
its level, starting from children’s sports in athletics
and spreading it to the advance levels of players.
Where my presence in this committee helps convey
all the difficulties, obstacles and ideas that impede
the work of these countries, as well as informing
them of everything new in the world of athletics
and International Federation, which helps in thedevelopment and work of cadres and players.

MAJD
GHAZALSYRIA

M Y O B JECTI VES :SEEKING TO DEVELOPAND SPREAD THE
CULTURE OF ATHLETICS
IN THE PRESENCE
OF THE DIFFICULTIESAND OBSTACLES IT ISEXPOSED TO.

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Find ways to increase the number of members of
this game in these countries through their love andknowledge of the heroes of this game in the country.

Bronze medal World Championships 2017

Professional Career:SportsSport Administration:
Player

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:

ARABIC, ENGLISH
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :HIGH JUMP
TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:PERSEVERANCEPATIENCE
NEVER GIVE UP

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As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

Sport career and athletics
achievements:

Why I am running for the election:
I am the Chair of Athletes’ Commission since end of
2019, it has been very interesting and instructive
to be involved in many different processes.
Putting the athletes in the main stage of our sport
has always been important for me and that’s why I
want to be able to follow this investment I’ve started
with World Athletics since almost 4 years.
I have learned the different political processes inorder to know how better we can work as a teamto keep pushing athletes’ priorities in the different
discussions.

RENAUD
L AVILLENIEFRANCEMY O B JECTI VES :FOLLOW THE WORK WE
HAVE DONE THE LAST 4YEARS TO REPRESENTTHE ATHLETES VOICE AT
THE BEST.

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Olympic Champion 2012, World Record (2014-2020)

Professional Career:
All Star Perche Meeting Director since 2016

Sport Administration:
World Athletics Athletes’ Commission Chair (20192023)

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:

FRENCH, ENGLISH
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :POLE VAULT
TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:AMBITIONDETERMINATIONTHE ATHLETES’VOICE MATTERS.
USE YOURS.
VOTE.
21

As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

Sport career and athletics
achievements:

Why I am running for the election:
Athletics is part of my life.
I have loved athletics since I was a child, so athletics
has taught me very many things like how to set
goals, and how to reach your dreams. Athletics hastaught me how to deal with a win and how to deala loss so I have gone through a lot as an athlete.
Therefore I feel the responsibility to stand up forthe needs of other athletes and raise the athletes’
voices as well as to defend our rights: especially
African Female athletes.

HALIMAH
NAK A AYIUGANDAM Y O B JECTI VES :TO UNITE ATHLETES’AND TO RAISE THE
ATHLETES’ VOICE.

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I want to motivate the young generation to start the
sport at an early age. It is my desire to encourage
everyone to fall in love with athletics and become
more active in the running community by getting
involved in physical skills to gain more confidence.
Therefore I will be very grateful if you vote for me.

I started athletics at age 7. I earned a sports
scholarship through all formal education till theend of my University studies. In 2010, I competed
in my first major competition at the youth olympics
in Singapore.
I won a gold medal at the Isle of man in the UK
youth commonwealth games in 2011. I am a 2-time
Olympic qualifier. I have competed in 3 world
championships including one gold medal in Doha2019 and one bronze medal at the 2022 world
indoors in Belgrade.

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:ENGLISH, SWAHILI,LUGANDA, AND
LUSOGA
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :400M, 800M, AND
1500M

Professional Career:

TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:

Middle distance

INTELLIGENT
DETERMINEDCARING

Sport Administration:
I have been a Ugandan female athletics representative
3 times, and 3 times national team captain.

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23

As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

Sport career and athletics
achievements:

Why I am running for the election:
Dear Athletes,
My name is Airinė Palšytė, and I’m a three-time
Olympian, European high jump champion andmedallist, and ten-time National champion. I stand
before you as a candidate for the World Athletics
Athletes’ Commission, driven by a strong belief:
TOGETHER, WE CAN TRANSFORM OUR SPORT!
I’m here for one simple reason: I WANT TO MAKE
SURE WE’RE HEARD LOUD AND CLEAR. My
GOAL is to champion CLEAN SPORTS, FAIRNESS
in competition, and EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES for
every athlete around the globe.

AIRINĖ
PALŠY TĖL IT HUANIAM Y O B JECTI VES :I AM COMMITTED TO
LIFTING OUR VOICES IN
ATHLETICS DECISIONMAKING, PROMOTINGAND IMPROVINGFAIR COMPETITION,
AND BOOSTING OUR
SPORT’S GLOBAL IMAGE- TOGETHER, WE CAN
MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

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If you ELECT ME, I’ll focus on three areas closest
to my heart:• STRENGTHENING GLOBAL REPRESENTATIONAND COMMUNICATION: We all deserve to beheard, no matter where we’re from. I’ll strive toamplify our voices in decision-making processes
and enhance transparency and understanding
within our sport’s ecosystem.

• BOOSTING THE PUBLIC IMAGE OF
ATHLETICS: Let’s show the world that our sport
isn’t just about competition; it’s about the humanspirit, resilience, and dedication. I’ll work hard
to reshape the public perception of athletics,
inspiring the next generation and gaining more
support for us.
• PROMOTING ANTI-DOPING INITIATIVES:
Let’s protect the integrity of our sport! I’ll
prioritize education about the risks of doping,encouraging clean athletics, and pushing forchanges in the future to ensure fair play.
Just like you, I’ve savoured the thrill of victoryand learned from disappointments. I’ve trained
relentlessly, and I’ve stood on the podium. But
above all, I understand our need to be HEARD,
UNDERSTOOD, and have our rights PROTECTED.

Let’s come together; let’s shape the future of oursport. I’m Airinė Palšytė, and I’m ready to be yourvoice at World Athletics Athletes’ Commission!
I appreciate your consideration.
Yours in sport,
AP

Sport career and athletics
achievements:
European Indoor Champion 2017, ECH vicechampion 2016, EICH bronze medalist 2019,
3x Olympian (London, Rio, Tokyo), 2x WorldChampionships finalist, 10 x National Champion

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:

LITHUANIAN(NATIVE), ENGLISH(PROFESSIONAL
WORKINGPROFICIENCY),RUSSIAN (LIMITEDWORKINGPROFICIENCY),SPANISH (BASICS)
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :HIGH JUMP

Professional Career:

TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:BA degree from Vilnius University (BusinessInformation Management), MA (ongoing) degreefrom Vilnius University (Marketing and Integrated
Communications)

RESILIENTDETERMINEDAMBITIOUS

Sport Administration:
Vice-President at National Athletes’ Association(2021 - present)

THE ATHLETES’VOICE MATTERS.
USE YOURS.
VOTE.
25

As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

I’m not here for personal glory. I’m here because
I believe in US, in our collective power to bringchange in athletics. Your vote for me is a VOTE
for a shared vision of PROGRESS and FAIRNESS.

Why I am running for the election:
I am here for you!

AISHA
PRAUGHT-LEER
JA MAICAMY O B JECTI VES :TO GROW THE SPORT IN
A WAY THAT CENTERS
ATHLETES’ RIGHTS,
EARNING POTENTIAL
AND FAIR PLAY.

26

In my first four-year term as a member of the Athletes
Commission I advocated fervently for athletes:demanded the reestablishment of all Diamond League
disciplines, worked to freeze athletes’ World Rank
through Covid-19 Pandemic, pushed WA to provide
financial aid for athletes through the pandemic andprovided honest feedback to put athletes FIRST. I
have proven myself to my colleagues on the Athletes
Commission and World Athletics staff members as aperson who speaks up, without hesitation but withgreat thought and perspective, when it comes toprotecting athletes rights, experience and fair play.
I believe Athletics can and will return as one of themost popular global sports, but you can count on
me to never value innovation above an athletes’
earning potential.
I take pride in going above and beyond the normal
course of duty. Having served on the Human
Rights Working Group, we created a framework andrecommendations for World Athletics to protect
and recognize human rights in sport. All of ourrecommendations were accepted and applied.
Additionally, I currently serve on the World Plan
Working group to implement a long-term vision
to catapult Athletics to a larger global stage withmore fans, more participation, and hopefully moremoney in the Athlete pocket.
Vote for me and I will continue putting you first!

Commonwealth Games Gold (Steeple), Pan Am
Silver (1500m), 7x National Teams, 2x Olympian, 5xNational Record Holder, Olympic and World Finalist

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:ENGLISH
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :Professional Career:

1500M, 5000M

10 years as a professional athlete

Sport Administration:
WA Athletes Commission elected member 20192023. Served on the Human Rights Working Group,
Footwear Working Group and currently serving on
the World Plan Working GroupTH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:HONESTPERSISTENT
PRINCIPLED

THE ATHLETES’VOICE MATTERS.
USE YOURS.
VOTE.
27

As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

Sport career and athletics
achievements:

Why I am running for the election:
I have spent almost 20 years of my life on the track
since my first athletic training. Athletics has always
been my love, passion and dream. In the past 20
years, athletics taught me not only never to give up
and always chase your dreams, but also how to be
brave, humble, inclusive and open-minded. WhenI broke the Asian record of men’s 100m (9.83s) at
the Tokyo Olympics and became the first Chinese
athlete ever entered into the men’s 100m final at
the Olympics at the age of 33, the excitement, joy
and honor I felt were beyond words. It encouraged
countless Chinese and Asian athletes and again
proved that nothing is impossible as long as you
never give up.

SU
BINGTIAN
CHINA

MY O B JECTI VES :BE THE VOICE OF THE
ATHLETES, PROTECTTHE RIGHTS OF THE
ATHLETES, PROMOTETHE DEVELOPMENT OF
ATHLETICS AND BRINGPOSITIVE CHANGES TO
THE SOCIETY WITH THE
POWER OF ATHLETICS.

Athletics is undoubtedly my life-long career. It hasbrought me so much and I am eager to make more
contributions to the development of athletics aroundthe world. Except for a professional athlete, I am also
Vice President of the Chinese Athletics Association
and Associate Professor at the Jinan University. In
addition, I also had the honor to work as a memberof World Athletics Athletes’ Commission from 2019till now. In these positions, I tried hard to make thevoices of the athletes heard, consider the interestsof the athletes during the decision-making process,and provide conducive suggestions so as to improve
good governance, regional balance, gender equity,
youth participation, mass participation, and clean
sport in athletics.
With a strong sense of responsibility, if I had thehonor to be a member of the Athletes’ Commission, I
would fully commit myself to it and spare no efforts
to be the voice of the athletes, protect the rights of
the athletes, promote the development of athletics,
and bring positive changes to the society using thepower of athletics.
Dear athletes, we are at the core of athletics, andlet us use the power of the athletes to make thefuture of our sport better and brighter.

28

Asian Record holder of Men’s 100m (9.83s). Asian
Record holder of Men’s 60m (6.42 s). The first
Chinese to enter Men’s 100m final at the Olympic
Games. The first Asian to reach the 100m final at
the World Championships. The first local Asian
runner to break the 10-second barrier. Olympic
Games: 1×Bronze (2021), 2×Top 8 (2016, 2021).
World Championships: 1×Silver (2015), 3×Top
8 (2017, 2019). World Indoor Championships:
1×Silver (2018), 2×Top 8 (2014, 2016). World
Cup: 1×Silver (2018). Asian Games: 3×Gold (2010,2014, 2018), 1×Silver (2014), 1×Bronze (2018).
Asian Championships: 3×Gold (2011, 2013, 2015),
1×Silver (2009), 1×Bronze (2013)

Professional Career:

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:

CHINESE, ENGLISH
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :100M, 60M, 4X100
RELAY
TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:RESILIENTPERSISTENT
MOTIVATED2007 - present: Athlete of the Guangdong Provincial
Team. 2009 - present: Athlete of the Chinese
Athletics Team. 2017 - present: Associate Professor,
School of Physical Education, Jinan University. 2021
- present: Director, Su Bingtian Speed Research
and Training Center, Jinan University

Sport Administration:
2019 - present: Member, Athletes’ Commission,
World Athletics. 2022 - present: Vice President,
Chinese Athletics Association. 2019 - 2022:
Executive Committee Member, Chinese Athletics
Association. 2019 - 2022: Deputy Director, Athletes’
Commission, Chinese Athletics Association. 2021
- present: Vice President, Guangdong Provincial
Athletics Association

THE ATHLETES’VOICE MATTERS.
USE YOURS.
VOTE.
29

As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

Sport career and athletics
achievements:

Why I am running for the election:
If there’s only one thing you need to know about
me, it’s that I love track and field.
Either on the track or as a spectator, I’m a passionate
supporter of all things track and field.
I’ve been on both sides of the spectrum when it
comes to athletics. I have held contracts and won a
medal while also having zero resources that meantthat I had to work harder and put in extra effort
to succeed.

JASMINE
TODD
USAMY O B JECTI VES :TO ALWAYS PROTECTTHE ATHLETES ANDHELP MOVE OUR SPORTFORWARD.

30

I’m committed to doing everything I can to protect
and support you. I will always fight to protect yourbest interests to ensure you reach your optimum
performance. Whether it’s something as big as rulechanges, or making sure major meeting schedules
work well for your performance, my priority will beto ensure you have the opportunity to reach yourgreatest potential.
I’m not afraid to use my voice to elevate yours. I
believe that through clear communication, integrity,and keeping the athletes first will help grow oursport to reach the potential we all know it has.
It is for these reasons, I ask that you vote for me.

Long Jump PB: 6.84m, 100m PB: 10.92, 2015
4x100 Silver Medalist, Made World Championships
in 2015 and 2019.

L ANG UAG ES S POKEN:ENGLISH
ATH L ETICS DIS CIPL INES :Professional Career:

LONG JUMP, 100M

USATF women’s long jump runner up 2019,represented Team USA in 2019.
TH R EE WOR DS TH AT D ES CR IB E
M E B EST:Sport Administration:
I have been a part of USATF AAC Leadership for
women’s short sprints 2020-present.

DETERMINEDEMPATHETICSTRAIGHTFORWARD

THE ATHLETES’VOICE MATTERS.
USE YOURS.
VOTE.
31

As outlined in the Athletes’ Commission Nomination Form, the contents of this document have been solely written and provided by the respective candidate. Its contents have not been edited in terms of content and merely received editorial revisions for readability and design purposes.

Sport career and athletics
achievements:

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All rights reserved.

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