MANILA – German finswimmer Max Poschart was among the seven elected to the International World Games Association (IWGA) Athlete Committee for the term 2025-2029.

He won the men's 100m, and 4x50m and 4x100m surface relays at the World Games held in Chengdu, China on Aug. 7 to 17.

China's Xiaoxiao (Sunny) Lai (wushu), Spain's Sandra Sánchez (karate), Hungary's Petra Senánszky (underwater sports), Andrea Busa (kickboxing) and Yves Martial Tadissi (karate), and Australia's Catherine Phillips (flying disc) were also elected from a pool of 20 candidates, all nominated by their respective International Federations, by accredited athletes during the online voting from Aug. 3 to 16.

In accordance with the IWGA Constitution, up to two additional members may be appointed by the IWGA president by October 2025 to ensure balanced representation in terms of gender, sport, and geographical diversity.

Once the final composition of the Athlete Committee is confirmed, the members will elect a chairperson who will be a part of the IWGA Executive Committee from 2025 to 2029.

“I extend my congratulations to the seven elected athletes and thank all the candidates who stood for election. The strong engagement of athletes during the voting period shows how important this Committee is for the future of The World Games. We look forward to working closely with the newly elected members," said IWGA President and Electoral Committee Chairman José Perurena in a press release posted on the IWGA website Monday night.

“This election has once again underlined the importance of athlete input in shaping the direction of our organization. The Athletes Committee serves as a vital bridge between the IWGA and the competitors who bring the Games to life. We’re excited to collaborate with this new group over the coming years," added IWGA Executive Committee and the Electoral Committee members Jan Fransoo and John Liljelund. (PNA)