Randhir Singh Set to Become First Indian President of Olympic Council of Asia

Randhir Singh, a seasoned sports administrator and former international shooter, is poised to become the first Indian president of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). The 77-year-old Singh, who has served as the acting chief of the continental sports body since 2021, emerged as the sole candidate for the top post in the upcoming September 8 elections.

Singh's nomination was unanimously approved by the OCA Election Committee, chaired by Justice Rohinton Nariman, after reviewing the eligibility requirements and nominations submitted by member National Olympic Committees (NOCs). Singh was nominated by the Indian NOC and supported by 27 other OCA member NOCs.

Singh's appointment as acting OCA chief came after Sheikh Ahmed Al-Fahad Al-Sabah stepped aside as president following a Geneva Court ruling that found him guilty in a forgery case. Singh had previously served as OCA Secretary General from 1991 to 2015 under Sheikh Ahmed Al-Fahad Al-Sabah.

During his tenure as acting OCA chief, Singh oversaw the postponement of the Hangzhou Asian Games from 2022 to 2023 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Games were eventually held successfully, showcasing Singh's leadership qualities.

Born in Patiala, Punjab, Singh is the son of Bhalindra Singh, a long-time IOC member and IOA president. He is also the grandson of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala. Singh's shooting career saw him win multiple national titles and become the first Indian shooter to win an Asian Games gold medal in 1978. He competed in five Olympic Games from 1968 to 1984 and won medals in four Asian Games.

Singh's administrative experience includes serving as Secretary General of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) from 1987 to 2012 and as vice chairman of the organizing committee for the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. He was also a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) from 2001 to 2014 and has been an honorary member since 2014.

Singh's election as OCA president would mark a significant milestone for Indian sports and further strengthen the country's position in the global sporting arena.

Tags: #RandhirSingh, #OCAPresident, #IndianSports, #AsianGames, #OlympicCouncilOfAsia