As the sports world continues to grapple with the issue of doping, the appointment of Gaby Ahrens as a member of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Athlete Council is a welcome development for both Namibia and the African continent.

The three-time Olympian and former competitive trap shooting athlete told New Era Sport she is excited about her new journey because she has athletes’ best interests at heart.

“Since my retirement from competitive sport in 2016, I am actively involved in sports governance and the Olympic Movement in my country and on the African continent. I have a passion, endless drive and commitment to serve athletes along their sports careers,” she said.

Ahrens, who also serves as a member of the International Olympic Committee, explained that her role will be emphasising the importance of respecting the integrity of sport and upholding the rights and responsibilities of athletes.

She said serving as chairperson of the Namibia Athletes Commission for eight years and currently serving as athletes’ representative of Africa National Olympic Committee Association (ANOCA), “I have extensive experience and knowledge in athlete representation within sport organisations which enables me to advise, recommend and consult accordingly and this way, I will contribute to WADA athletes’ council going forward,” she said.

The shottist further said her appointment would be of great benefit to the country and the athletes as most of these pressing issues would be addressed here at home, adding this will give a clear message to local athletes on the implications that come with doping.

“In the past years, I have organised various athletes’ forums and workshops in Namibia, which outlined practical information to athletes regarding anti-doping rules and regulations to spread the message of clean sport.

“Anti-doping awareness will also be a focus area at the upcoming African Athletes Continental Forum to take place in March 2023 in Algiers and of course, with the Namibia Athletes Commission, we will ensure that more educational workshops and forums will be held in Namibia as well,” she said.

- mkambukwe@nepc.com.na