Good luck Team Guernsey!

Tuesday 20 March 2018

Guernsey's Bailiff has led the official send off for the Bailiwick's Commonwealth Games athletes.

Team Guernsey gathered at the Royal Court yesterday evening where the Flag Bearer was named.

Matthew Guille will have the honour of leading the Sarnian side out during the opening ceremony at the Gold Coast Games on 4 April. However, the shooter couldn't be at last night's event as Mr Guille who now lives in the UK was unable to travel to Guernsey due to work commitments.

Mr Guile is a previous silver medalist for Team Guernsey having competed at two Commonwealth Games in the past. In 1982 he travelled to Australia for the Brisbane Games where he came second in his events, while in 1986 he competed at the Edinburgh Games. 

The Bailiff, Sir Richard Collas, announced Mr Guille had been selected as Flag Bearer during yesterday's reception, with the Guernsey Commonwealth Games Association saying it is delighted with the selection.

Guernsey's Chef De Mission Garry Collins added: "I am delighted for Matthew, who I spoke to this afternoon again; he is very keen to lead out the Guernsey Team at the opening ceremony. Unfortunately Matthew couldn't be present at the official send-off in Guernsey due to his work commitments."

Pictured: Team Guernsey at a recent get-together before they all travel to Australia 

Mr Collins and Sir Richard will both be travelling to Australia as part of Team Guernsey.

Mr Collins leaves Guernsey on Wednesday 21 March, accompanied by Angela Stuart from the Guernsey Commonwealth Games Management Team. Most of the team will follow them on Saturday 24 March   

Prior to the team leaving a number of other events have been held, including school assemblies where different athletes have been speaking to school pupils to encourage them to take an interest in their chosen sport.

Pictured: Main image and others from Guernsey Commonwealth Games Association