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One of the more unusual sides to the Island Games is the water ceremony – likened by some to the lighting of the Olympic flame.
Guernsey has picked indoor bowler Catherine Bonsall and swimmer Hannah Kennedy as the island’s Water Carriers, both debutants.
The mixing of water from each of the competing 24 islands forms part of the opening ceremony, which for Guernsey 2023 will take place on Saturday 8 July in Town from 5pm.
The water ceremony originated in Aland in 1991 and has featured in every event since then.
Dick Ekstrom, Chairman of the Aland Games Organising Committee and a member of the IGA Executive Committee, explained the reasoning when making the opening speech.
“Water is the element which enables all of us to call ourselves islanders. It’s surrounding us and separating us, but it also unites us all."
Following this tradition, Catherine and Hannah will present water from Guernsey’s shores which will be combined with that from the other islands in a display of unity and solidarity.
Swimmer Tom Hollingsworth has been chosen as the island’s flag bearer for a Games in which he will aim for his 50th medal.
Pictured: (L-R) GIGA Chair, Brian Allen, water bearers, Hannah Kennedy and Catherine Bonsall, CEO of Utmost International Guernsey, Leon Steyn, flag bearer, Tom Hollingsworth and Games Director, Jon Marley.
Brian Allen, Chairman of the Guernsey Island Games Association said: “We're thrilled both a returning champion of the Island Games and two new faces are representing Guernsey as Flag Bearer and Water Carriers this year.
“Both are significant roles in the Games and link the present day to the competition’s rich history. We know that this year’s team will represent our island with pride and wish every athlete the best of luck this year.”
Leon Steyn, Chief Executive Officer, Utmost International Guernsey, said: “It’s an honour to be sponsoring a strong team of athletes this year. We look forward to enjoying the opening ceremony, where Guernsey’s place will be marked among the other islands competing in the Games.”
Pictured top: Water bearers for the Island Games, Hannah Kennedy and Catherine Bonsall.
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