Dr. Sasha Gollish’s Visit to Dubai: A Step Towards Gender Equity in Sports
A Global Advocate for Gender Equality in Sports Lands in Dubai
Dubai will soon welcome Dr. Sasha Gollish, a celebrated Canadian athlete, gender equity advocate, and ambassador for ASICS, the renowned athletic brand. As part of ASICS’ ongoing commitment to promoting inclusive and accessible sports environments worldwide, Dr. Gollish will participate in the ASICS Women’s Run marathon, held in Dubai from November 1st to 5th. This event not only celebrates women in sports but also showcases ASICS’ efforts to foster a sports environment that supports women across all ages, skill levels, and life stages.
Dr. Gollish’s dedication to advancing women and girls in sports shines through her role with ASICS and her ongoing efforts to bring real change. A member of the ASICS Gender Advisory Panel, she has tirelessly championed the removal of barriers that prevent women from participating fully in athletic pursuits. Her work exemplifies ASICS’ commitment to gender equity, which aims to empower women to participate confidently and inclusively in sports.
Breaking Barriers: Insights from the ASICS Gender Exercise Gap Report
Dr. Gollish has been an instrumental contributor to the ASICS Global Gender Exercise Gap Report, which outlines significant obstacles faced by women in sports. Her research sheds light on various cultural, social, and logistical challenges that women encounter, which have historically limited female participation in sports. This report has driven substantial changes, including more female-friendly policies in marathons and training events, marking a pivotal step toward bridging the gender exercise gap.
A recent success story under Dr. Gollish’s guidance was the 2023 Toronto Waterfront Marathon, which saw a significant 9% increase in female participants. This growth was driven by policies such as deferral options for pregnancy, specialized community training groups, and improved facilities, specifically designed to create a more supportive and accommodating environment for women athletes. These changes have not only encouraged greater female participation but also set a standard for future sports events globally.
Inspiring Change: Dr. Gollish’s Role in ASICS’ Women’s Communities
Dr. Gollish is deeply passionate about creating inclusive sports communities that welcome women of all ages and backgrounds. Her visit to Dubai includes collaboration with ASICS to expand the reach of women-focused sports communities that prioritize accessibility and inclusivity. Through her advocacy, ASICS aims to establish long-lasting support networks that encourage women to start and sustain their athletic journeys, regardless of their skill levels or life stages.
The ASICS Women’s Run marathon in Dubai is set to be a symbolic event, bringing together women from diverse backgrounds to celebrate unity and empowerment. As Dr. Gollish participates in this marathon, her presence will amplify the voices of women in sports and inspire Dubai’s female athletes to take ownership of their athletic journeys. ASICS hopes that this event will serve as a model for other cities, showing how gender-equitable policies and community-driven events can foster a welcoming space for women in sports.
An Athlete, a Coach, and a Gender Equity Advocate
Dr. Sasha Gollish brings a unique perspective to her advocacy, having experienced both the highs and challenges of sports as an elite athlete and a coach. Her journey is one of resilience, grit, and a relentless commitment to driving positive change in the world of sports. Throughout her career, she has worked with renowned publications, including World Athletics and iRun magazine, where she shares insights from her life as an athlete and coach. She discusses the specific challenges that girls and women face across life stages and encourages them to overcome these barriers to find joy and fulfillment in sports.
By bringing her voice to Dubai, Dr. Gollish seeks to inspire local women and girls to overcome societal barriers and take charge of their fitness journeys. Her message resonates strongly in today’s context, where creating gender-equitable spaces in sports is not just beneficial for women but strengthens the entire sports ecosystem.
ASICS and Dr. Gollish: A Shared Vision for the Future of Women in Sports
Dr. Gollish’s collaboration with ASICS embodies the brand’s commitment to a future where gender equity is the norm in sports, not the exception. ASICS has made great strides in building awareness around these issues and implementing changes, such as family-friendly policies at events and programs that specifically address women’s needs. By prioritizing inclusivity and dismantling traditional barriers, ASICS is setting a standard for other sports organizations to follow.
In Dubai, Dr. Gollish and ASICS are focused on fostering a supportive environment that celebrates women’s achievements and encourages participation. ASICS believes that when women have access to equitable, welcoming sports environments, the ripple effects benefit not only the athletes but also communities, families, and future generations of sports enthusiasts.
A Step Forward in the Middle East
As Dubai’s sports scene evolves to be more inclusive, Dr. Gollish’s visit represents a significant milestone for the city. Events like the ASICS Women’s Run are gradually transforming perceptions about women in sports within the Middle East, highlighting the power of community-driven events to promote gender equity.
Through her advocacy, Dr. Gollish is sparking meaningful conversations around accessibility, opportunity, and support for women athletes. Her work with ASICS is a reminder that gender equity in sports is attainable with the right policies, partnerships, and dedication. Her visit to Dubai is not just a single event; it symbolizes an enduring commitment to empowering women through sport and fostering an environment where they can thrive.
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