2021 Island Games 'still going ahead'

Thursday 14 May 2020

Although plans could change over the coming months as the global corona virus situation develops, the team behind the 2021 Island Games remain hopeful that the event will still take place.

Months of preparations have already gone into the event, with athletes from 23 islands across the world down to take part.

"The global corona virus pandemic has inevitably had an impact on major sporting events and no one can predict with certainty what the next few months will bring or what the situation will be in summer 2021," said Education, Sport and Culture President, Deputy Matt Fallaize. "However, our dedicated team of organisers are already well advanced with their preparations.

Pictured: A previous meeting of the International Island Games Association.

"We are all keeping our fingers crossed that in 14 months’ time, Guernsey will be hosting this fantastic week of sport for the first time in nearly 20 years.

"Organisers are now working remotely as they are determined to maintain momentum. They are in frequent contact with the other islands and the participating sports’ associations, many of which are directly affected by the pandemic."

However, the Island Games have already taken a hit from corona virus. The International Island Games Association AGM, which was due to be held in the island in July, has been postponed, with virtual meetings set to take place in the meantime.

"Hosting the Island Games is something which so many people in our community are enthusiastic about," Deputy Fallaize continued. "This is demonstrated by the fact that more than 650 people locally have already registered as volunteers to assist organisers.

Pictured: Deputy Matt Fallaize.

"The Guernsey 2021 team will continue to work with the IIGA and the member islands to understand the potential impact of the pandemic on our event and all of the islands’ preparations for the event."

The new athletics track at Foote's Lane has been completed in preparation for the Games and is now fully operational.

As part of the next phase of work, ESC has submitted a planning application for improvements to the Garenne Stand, with changes to the accessible viewing platform on the first floor and accessible toilets in the pipeline.