Info for Athletes
Guidance for competitors travelling to Changwon, South Korea, covering competition rules, entry and immigration steps, firearms handling, and anti-doping requirements for the championship.
Rules, Entry & Immigration
Rules and Regulations
Competition rules for the championship followed ISSF regulations across the Rifle, Pistol, Shotgun, and Running Target disciplines held at the Changwon International Shooting Range.
Entry Process
Participating athletes and teams followed the official entry process set out for the 52nd ISSF World Shooting Championship, run under ISSF oversight with the Organizing Committee chaired by Lee Dalgon.
Immigration & Entry Requirements
Travellers to Korea for the championship were directed to quarantine and entry information relevant to international arrivals during the competition period, August 31 to mid-September 2018.
Firearms & Ammunition
A notice on carrying guns and ammunition set out handling instructions for athletes transporting firearms and ammunition to and from the Changwon venue.
Accommodations, Travel & Anti-Doping
Accommodations & Travel
Athletes received accommodation and travel and transportation information for their stay in Changwon during the championship. Further lodging and transport details are set out on the Stay section.
Anti-Doping
Anti-doping information was provided to competitors as part of the athlete resources for the 52nd ISSF World Shooting Championship, held under ISSF supervision.
Messages for the event period came from ISSF President and IOC Member Olegario Vazquez Rana and ISSF Secretary General Franz Schreiber, alongside the Organizing Committee chairman.
Where to Go Next
For venue details, see the Overview section. For lodging, transportation, and local tour information, visit the Stay section covering accommodations around Changwon for the championship period.
Competitors arriving in Changwon for the World Shooting Championship will find a dedicated welcome infrastructure designed to ease their transition into the event. From the moment of landing, athletes are guided through clearly marked lanes for firearms declaration and customs clearance, ensuring that all equipment moves swiftly from airport to accreditation. Shuttle services operate on a continuous loop between designated hotels and the main competition venue, allowing participants to focus entirely on preparation rather than logistics. The organizing committee has prioritized clarity and efficiency, recognizing that a seamless arrival sets the tone for a successful championship experience.
Understanding and adhering to the competition rules is essential for every athlete on the range. The championship follows the latest ISSF regulations, covering equipment specifications, dress code, and conduct during finals. All competitors are expected to review the official rulebook before arriving, as any infraction could result in penalties or disqualification. Range officials will be available throughout the event to answer questions and verify that gear meets the required standards. This commitment to fairness ensures that every shot fired is judged on its own merit, preserving the integrity of the competition.
Firearms handling procedures have been established with the highest safety standards in mind. Athletes must present their weapons for inspection upon arrival and again before each competition day. All firearms must be transported in approved cases and stored in the designated secure armory when not in use. Ammunition is subject to random testing to confirm compliance with velocity and caliber limits. These measures are not merely bureaucratic steps but essential safeguards that protect every participant and official, allowing the championship to proceed without incident.
Anti-doping requirements are a critical component of the championship, and all athletes are subject to testing throughout the event. Competitors should familiarize themselves with the prohibited substances list and ensure that any medications they carry are accompanied by valid prescriptions or therapeutic use exemptions. The doping control station operates daily near the athlete lounge, with trained staff available to answer questions confidentially. Clean sport is a shared responsibility, and the championship organizers work closely with international agencies to maintain a level playing field for everyone.