India to Host Inaugural Hyundai World Archery Para Series in Ahmedabad
Historic Event in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], September 2: For the first time, India will host the Hyundai World Archery Para Series (WAPS), welcoming over 100 athletes from 20 nations for a five-day competition from September 5 to 9, 2026, at the renowned Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad, as announced by the Gujarat Chief Minister's Office.
Event Details and Inauguration
This significant event is organized by the Archery Association of India (AAI) with backing from the Government of Gujarat, the Sports Authority of Gujarat, and the Sports Authority of India (SAI). Competitors will participate in various categories, including Recurve Open, Compound Open, W1, and Visually Impaired.
The official inauguration is scheduled for September 4, 2026, at The Forum – Hotel & Convention, located near Club O7, Shela, Ahmedabad. The ceremony will be attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi.
Celebrating Courage and Resilience
Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi stated, “The opening ceremony, themed 'Every arrow tells a story of courage,' will honor the determination and excellence of para-athletes, showcasing their skills on a global stage.”
He further emphasized that under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel's leadership, Gujarat has become a prominent venue for international sports events, and hosting this series will enhance the state's reputation as a hub for major competitions.
International Participation
The competition will feature athletes from various countries, including India, China, Great Britain, France, Germany, Hungary, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Slovakia, the USA, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cyprus, Czechia, Iraq, Russia, and Sri Lanka.
Notable Indian participants include Harvinder Singh, the 2024 Paralympic Champion, World Para Archery Champion Sheetal Devi, Arjuna Awardee Rakesh Kumar, and Paralympian Shyam Sunder Swami.
A Proud Moment for India
Arjun Munda, President of the Archery Association of India, expressed pride in hosting the WAPS, stating that it will provide Indian athletes with a world-class competitive environment and inspire future generations. He noted that Ahmedabad's selection reflects India's growing capability to host significant international sporting events.
Virendra Sachdeva, Secretary General of the Archery Association of India, highlighted that this event marks a crucial milestone for the sport and the development of the Para Archery ecosystem in India, aiming to enhance visibility and foster connections within the global Para Archery community.
Future Prospects
This event is a pivotal step towards establishing India as a regular venue for international Para Archery competitions. With plans to host additional international archery events in 2027, including the Asia Cup Archery tournament, this series adds to India's growing prominence on the global archery calendar.
As Ahmedabad gears up to welcome athletes from around the world, the Hyundai World Para Archery Series 2026 is set to shine a spotlight on Gujarat while celebrating the inspiring stories behind each arrow.