Sports minister Tracey Crouch has backed calls for shooting to be included in the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games – but says it’s beyond her remit to reverse the organisers’ decision. Birmingham 2022 sparked a furious response when it announced shooting, an ‘optional’ sport, would not feature in the Commonwealth Games – it has been a part of every Games since 1974.
The organisers claimed that the problem was the lack of a suitable venue nearby, but supporters point out that Bisley in Surrey could host the shooting events and is closer to Birmingham than the Velodrome in London where the cycling will take place.
Speaking in a House of Commons debate the minister said the government “supports the notion of shooting being included” and added she was “exploring with Games partners the potential for including shooting.” She said they would work with partners to overcome logistical challenges if necessary.
British Shooting said it was grateful for the support shown by Tracey Crouch. It pointed to “a whole host of positive comments made by the minister in a conversation that included the history of success of home nations, potential venue options, medal opportunities and equality.”
British Shooting says it now hopes the Commonwealth Games Federation, Birmingham’s Organising Committee and the ISSF will be able to find a successful solution to including shooting sports in the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
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