2 May 2011 - The German Shooting Federation celebrates 150 years

The German Shooting Federation celebrates 150 years Neunbrandenburg (GER) – 2 May 2011 FITA Secretary General Tom DIELEN    The 57th General Assembly of the German Shooting and Archery Federation (DSB) on 30 April 2011 was the start of the 150 years celebrations of the Deutsche Schutzenbund. DSB has the honour to be the oldest German national sports federation as well as have the oldest club of German sports history. The General Assembly was attended by all the delegates of the federation as well as representatives of the National Olympic Committee (DOSB) and the Federal and Regional governments. FITA was represented by the Secretary General Tom DIELEN.   The DSB President, Mr Joseph AMBACHER, addressed the festive gathering which included a special remembrance to the people who had passed away in the last two years. This included Franz BAUM, the former national coach who played a key role in the history of German Archery.   The FITA Secretary General illustrated in his speech the long history of DSB as a FITA member and highlighted the role of Konrad AICHENMULLER, who is known as the father of German Archery and who played an important role in the lead up to the return of archery at the 1972 Olympic Games. His wife attended the General Assembly and the FITA Secretary General was able to thank her personally for her husband's contribution.   Tom DIELEN also mentioned the success of the athletes and especially the women’s team at the Atlanta and Sydney Games. He thanked DSB for the important role their representatives play in FITA and ask for continuous support of DSB in the future.   The DOSB Vice President, Dr Christa THIEL, mentioned the important role the DSB plays in Germany being the fourth biggest federation in Germany. The role of such a big federation goes beyond the borders of elite sport and DSB also plays an important social role in society. She also highlighted the success of the federation in the Olympics as well as their good financial health which is an example for others in Germany.   The celebrations will continue with a special gathering in Gotta in July where the federation was founded.   World Archery Communication