The International Jump Rope Union (IJRU) has become the 10th International Federation to gain GAISF Observer status.
The decision was taken by the Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF) Council, which met during SportAccord in Bangkok.
The IJRU was created by a merger of former rivals, the International Rope Skipping Federation (FISAC- IRSF) and World Jump Rope Federation (WJRF).
Both the constituent members of IJRU had made separate applications for Observer status but, in keeping with GAISF’s commitment to accepting a single International Federation for each sport, both worked with the help of GAISF advisors to align their interests, overcome rivalry issues and create the new Federation.
Observer status allows International federations to be part of the GAISF network, take part in activities including the annual IF Forum and to attend the General Assembly, although they have no vote.
Observer status is the first step on a clear pathway for new International Federations towards the top of the Olympic Family pyramid. Those who wish to proceed will be assisted by GAISF, leading them into full GAISF membership through the Alliance of Independent Recognised Members of Sport (AIMS), and the Association of IOC Recognised International Sports Federations (ARISF).
GAISF President Patrick Baumann said: “We are delighted to welcome IJRU as Observers and would like to congratulate all involved in the process of successfully aligning the two former Federations to create a single international governing body for this fast-growing and exciting sport.
“We wish everybody involved in the sport the very best as they begin their journey and can assure them of GAISF’s support and assistance to enable them to fulfil their potential within the GAISF Family.
“At a time when many new sports are emerging and expressing an interest in joining GAISF, the creation of IJRU provides a blueprint which might inspire other previously rival organisations to follow. We are committed to supporting IFs to achieve unity in the long-term interests of their sports.”
IJRU President Shaun Hamilton, of IJRU said: “We are delighted to become an Observer and to join the GAISF family.
“This closes one chapter and marks the beginning of an exciting new one in the development of Jump Rope as an international sport.
“The merger of the two Federations was done in the interests of our sport and the athletes, who can now look to the future with renewed confidence and excitement.”
