Yesterday, the UIPM announced that, in partnership with the Egyptian Modern Pentathlon Federation, the 2021 Youth and Junior World Championship events would be postponed.
With the date now set for mid-July this year, the announcement is welcomed by Modern Pentathlon Australia, with the move highlighting the importance of both competition and athlete safety through the ongoing pandemic.
As many Australian athletes continue their training and preparation for the 2021 season, Pathways and Performance Director Hannah Every-Hall said that the postponement provided a unique opportunity for Australian athletes to attend the event.
“After the adversity faced by all our athletes last year, the news of the postponement provides a new goal for our athletes to focus on.” Every-Hall said.
“Competition experience is essential for athletes at every level and the Youth and Junior World Championships is a benchmark event that every up-and-coming modern pentathlete should strive for.
We are grateful that the UIPM and the host federation has such a focus on the wellbeing and safety of every individual involved in staging the event while doing everything in their power to provide competition opportunities and development.”
With the competition now scheduled for July, ongoing efforts from federations around the world will continue with the aim of having youth and junior athletes compete in Egypt only a matter of weeks before the Tokyo Olympic Games.