Excluded Game from the 2022 Commonwealth Games: Shooting

Explanation:
The exclusion of shooting as a sport from the 2022 edition of the Commonwealth Games has generated considerable controversy and debate. The decision to remove shooting from the program was made by the organizing committee, in consultation with the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF), based on several factors.

1. Budget Constraints:
One of the main reasons cited for excluding shooting is the cost involved in organizing the sport. Shooting requires specialized infrastructure and equipment, which can be expensive to set up and maintain. With limited financial resources, the organizing committee decided to prioritize other sports that are more accessible and affordable.

2. Venue Limitations:
The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games will be held in multiple venues across the West Midlands region of England. However, due to venue limitations, the inclusion of shooting would have required the construction of a new facility. This would have added to the overall costs and logistical challenges of organizing the event.

3. Lack of Local Interest:
Another factor considered in the decision was the perceived lack of local interest in shooting as a sport. The organizing committee conducted surveys and consultations to gauge public sentiment towards various sports, and shooting received relatively low levels of support. As the Commonwealth Games aim to engage and inspire the local community, the inclusion of sports that resonate more with the host region was given priority.

4. Gender Equality:
The CGF has been working towards achieving gender equality in the Commonwealth Games program. As shooting predominantly offers separate events for men and women, it was seen as a challenge to achieving this goal. By eliminating shooting, the organizing committee aimed to create opportunities for other sports that can contribute to gender equality.

5. Evolution of the Games:
The Commonwealth Games program evolves over time to reflect changing sporting interests and priorities. By excluding shooting in 2022, the organizing committee sought to introduce new and emerging sports that have gained popularity and can enhance the overall appeal of the event.

It is important to note that the decision to exclude shooting from the 2022 Commonwealth Games has faced criticism from shooting federations and athletes around the world. They argue that shooting is a popular and inclusive sport, and its exclusion goes against the spirit of the Commonwealth Games, which aims to promote sportsmanship, diversity, and inclusivity.

Hockey