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The Isle of Man has announced its bid to host the 2029 Island Games - which, if successful, would make it the second island to host the event three times.
Guernsey has hosted the Games in 1987, 2003 and 2023.
The Isle of Man hosted the first ever Games in 1985 and was the first island to host the event for a second time in 2001.
Now it wants the Games back where it started for a third time.
The Isle of Man government said yesterday it has submitted its official bid to host the 2029 Games.
"The Manx bid was officially submitted to the International Island Games Association (IIGA) Executive Committee on Monday, as Guernsey 2023 got underway," the statement confirmed.
The IIGA will have to inspect the Isle of Man's venues and infrastructure before announcing its decision next year. That is likely to take place during a visit scheduled for October.
Jorgen Pettersson, Chair of the IIGA, said: "I am delighted to receive the formal bid from the Isle of Man to stage the 2029 Games."
The Isle of Man's Chief Minister, Alfred Cannan MHK, said: "If we are successful it will provide a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Manx athletes and a golden opportunity to showcase the Isle of Man and its rich culture and heritage."
The Isle of Man government has said the 2029 Games could attract around 4,000 people with an estimated economic boost in the region of £3.5m.
The organisers of Guernsey 2023 had expected around 3,000 to visit the island this week, with around 15,000 thought to have been in town on Saturday for the opening ceremony.
Events have been busy with spectators with standing room only at some arenas, including basketball, football and table tennis.
Pictured: Guernsey tussles for the ball against Ynys Mon. (ROB CURRIE)
The Island Games are usually held every two years.
The last Games was held in Gibraltar in 2019 before a four year gap caused by the covid pandemic forcing the postponement of the planned Guernsey 2021 Games.
Orkney is next to host the Games with the 2025 events already being planned. Ynys Mon is hosting in 2027. Neither island have hosted the Games before.
Pictured top: Rachel Franklin of Isle of Man in the 1,500m at Footes Lane. She won gold. (ROB CURRIE)
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