No Cue Sports in Olympic Games ?

On the April 18th the WCBS received a letter from the IOC, Mr. Christophe Dubi, IOC Sports Director, who thanked the WCBS for the excellent work completed in preparation and execution of the forms justifying criteria for Olympic recognition.

On behalf of the IOC, Christophe Dubi confirmed to the WCBS that the Olympic recognition has been maintained. The IOC said that individual meetings with each International Federation will be held at the SportAccord in Athens in June 2008.

This news is really pleasing to hear, since it confirms by this continued recognition that Cue Sports will continue to receive subsidies for the development of its activities. In addition, many National Federations receive from their National Olympic Committees, financial aid which can assist with the financial funding for participation to the International Competitions.

However, it is not all good news - although perhaps not a real surprise, but it's a harsh reminder of how our full efforts should be provided to ensure that the Snooker and Billiards, like other Cue Sport disciplines, can finally be seen one day participating in the Olympic Games.

The Director Sportive states that the IOC Programme Commission has retained five sports to be studied in further details, in the context of the revision and selection process for the Olympic programme 2016.  These sports are Karate, Golf, Squash, Roller Sports and Rugby along with Baseball and Softball that are currently holding Olympic sport status. So it still seems a long time away for us to achieve our goals!

Let's keep however, our optimism high and carry on working hard so we can be ready to take the next train. In the meantime we must spare no efforts to be present in all major sports events (Commonwealth Games, Mediterranean Games, Asian Games and World Games etc).

07 May 2008 - France