Friendship and precision shine at the closing of the 4th WMC Archery

TEHRAN (IRI) - The 4th CISM World Military Archery Championship concluded in Tehran with a vibrant celebration of sportsmanship, solidarity, and cultural exchange. Hosted by the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran under the auspices of the International Military Sports Council (CISM), the week-long competition brought together military athletes from Iran, Turkey, Russia, Tunisia, and Nigeria in a spirit of friendship and peace.

Demonstrating outstanding consistency and teamwork, the Iranian delegation emerged as the overall champion, collecting an impressive total of seven gold, five silver, and five bronze medals. Turkey followed in second place with four gold and three silver medals, while Russia secured third position with three gold, eight silver, and seven bronze medals.

Tunisia earned special recognition for their exemplary spirit of fair play, receiving the Fair Play Cup and finishing fourth overall. In addition, Iran was awarded the prestigious Friendship Through Sport Trophy, the highest honor of the event, in recognition of its outstanding hospitality, organizational excellence, and commitment to CISM’s core values of unity and mutual respect. This distinction, offered by our Partner A5 Defense Industry Magazine, symbolized the championship’s deeper message, that competition can coexist with cooperation and that friendship remains the true victory of every CISM event.

Among the individual honors, Emircan Haney from Turkey was named Best Male Athlete, and Geesa Baybordi from Iran earned the title of Best Female Athlete. Awards were also presented to the best para-athletes and referees, reflecting the inclusive nature of the championship and CISM’s commitment to equal opportunity in sport.

Beyond the competition, the championship served as a remarkable platform for friendship and cultural exchange. One of the most memorable highlights was the International Mixed Team Event, an unofficial competition designed to foster cooperation among athletes from different nations. This initiative perfectly embodied the CISM motto “Friendship through Sport,” emphasizing unity over rivalry and empathy over competition.

Throughout the week, athletes and officials shared experiences and traditions, building bridges across borders through mutual respect and camaraderie. The event reaffirmed sport’s role as a universal language, one that transcends political, cultural, and geographical barriers.

The final day was marked by an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. The closing ceremony was graced by Major General Shakhkhasani, Deputy Chief of Staff for Training of the General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, and Major General Hamid Vahedi, Commander of the Iranian Army Air Force. Both leaders praised the athletes for their discipline, skill, and dedication, highlighting Iran’s proud tradition of chivalry and hospitality.

“You are guests of a country whose civilization goes back to the dawn of human society,” declared Major General Vahedi. “Our culture, deeply rooted in Iranian-Islamic civilization, has always valued peace, respect, and human connection. The principle of ‘Friendship through Sport’ is a powerful tool to foster understanding and reduce tensions among nations.”

Representing the International Military Sports Council, Major General Oleg Botsman, official CISM Representative, praised the impeccable organization and hospitality of the Iranian Armed Forces. “This championship is a demonstration of cooperation, comradeship, and friendship,” he said. “It is a living affirmation of CISM’s mission and motto: Friendship through Sport.”

He extended thanks to the Technical Committee, referees, and judges for ensuring a fair and professional competition that honored the spirit of international military sport. In his closing remarks, Brigadier General Jamshid Fooladi, Chief of the Iranian Delegation to CISM and member of the CISM Board of Directors, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants, athletes, coaches, and officials, for their dedication and exemplary behavior. He also acknowledged the visiting delegations from Russia, Turkey, Nigeria, and Tunisia, emphasizing that the true success of the event lies not in medals, but in the friendships and mutual respect forged throughout the week.

The 4th CISM World Military Archery Championship reached exceptional technical standards, with athletes demonstrating precision, concentration, and mastery under pressure. Every shot reflected years of training, discipline, and a deep respect for the sport. As the curtain closed in Tehran, the legacy of this championship extended far beyond the targets and scoreboards. It stood as a reminder that military sport is not merely about competition, but about unity, peace, and the shared human pursuit of excellence.

The 4th CISM World Military Archery Championship will be remembered not only for its remarkable athletic performances but for its embodiment of the CISM spirit: Friendship through Sport.

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department and Iranian Delegation to CISM)