Following his election as World Archery president on 3 September in Gwangju, Greg Easton pledged to guide the sport through an exciting new chapter, building on the strong foundations laid by his predecessors.
The 60-year-old returns to the helm, succeeding Prof Dr Ugur Erdener after an impactful 20-year presidency. Honouring the federation’s past while charting a clear course forward, Easton draws upon both his personal legacy and a fresh strategic vision to propel archery into its next chapter.
“Yesterday I asked you to join me on this journey and I want to thank you for joining me,” Easton said after the vote. “I think together we can make some great changes here at World Archery and continue to improve our sport and build on the great foundation that both Tom [Dielen] and Dr Erdener created for us.”
He paid tribute to Erdener’s lasting contributions.
“His leadership has transformed World Archery into a modern, globally respected federation – which, today, stands strong thanks to the initiatives he championed,” Easton noted.
Easton also acknowledged his presidential contender, secretary general Tom Dielen, highlighting his dedication and service.
“I’d like to thank Tom for all of his service. I don’t think this takes anything away from what he has done and could potentially still do for this sport. So, thank you, Tom.”
Looking ahead, Easton emphasised the importance of collaboration and resilience.
“The journey is going to be exciting. I also think it will have its challenges, and I hope you all can remember this day and the excitement we feel and be ready for some of the changes that I think are necessary to help move our sport forward.”
He also thanked his team and supporters.
“We did a great job, both people directly on my team and other supporters around the world. I want to thank you all for your support and for your vote this morning and, with all due humility, I am very honoured to accept this position from you. Thank you very much.”
Easton’s vision, as outlined on his presidential website, focuses on a responsive, collaborative and forward-looking federation that reflects the diversity and aspirations of its global membership. His strategic priorities centre on strengthening national federations, empowering athletes, innovating events and ensuring transparent governance.
He likens the sport to an arrow: “Athletes are the point; member associations are the shaft; partners and organisers are the stabilising fletching; and World Archery is the nock that brings it all together. Every part matters if the arrow is to fly true.”
With this philosophy, Easton begins his four-year term with a clear call to action: to build on World Archery’s achievements, embrace change with courage and ensure that the sport continues to grow in reach, relevance, and integrity.
