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Thousands lined the St Peter Port seafront to cheer as the 19th NatWest International Island Games was officially declared open.
A huge display of music and ceremony was carried out and cheers were offered to the approximately 2,000 athletes, from 24 different islands, who will compete in 14 different sports over the coming week.
Athletes made their way from the back of North Beach car park to a stage where music from the local Big Band Collective entertained the crowds. Flag bearers brought their respective fabrics to the front, and water from each island was mixed in a fountain – following a more than 30-years-long Games tradition.
Jorgen Pettersson, Chair of the International Island Games Association, gave a rousing speech at the car park where he saluted all those “who have travelled far and wide to be here today.
“Is there anything more wonderful to see that so many competitors and participants together in one place?
“We persevered and we stand together today... Let us cherish this moment, embrace the challenges ahead, and make the most of this unique opportunity to come together as one island family again,” Mr Pettersson said.
“Make sure that you leave as friends. Have a great week of sport and friendship.”
Pictured: Jorgen Pettersson.
The Bailiff, Sir Richard McMahon, officially opened the Games marking the end of the ceremony. He said, “these Games present an opportunity for us all to learn about the places” and he hoped that all would become “better informed about the whole Island Games family” over the coming week.
“On behalf of the people of the Bailiwick of Guernsey can I say that each and every one of you is most welcome here, and we look forward to what will be a wonderful week of sporting endeavours.”
Guernsey cyclist Karina Bowie Jackson and pistol shooter Andy Torode (pictured below) took the Games’ oath on behalf of all the athletes.
The Island Games flag was then raised opposite White Rock café:
Watch: The flag is raised.
Athletes then snaked their way from the car park, around the roundabout, and along the Quay to Albert Pier. They were interspersed with Samba drummers, the Majorettes, bagpipers, and a tractor carrying local dignitaries and the official Games mascot, Jet the puffin.
Pictured: Guernsey flag bearer swimmer Tom Hollingsworth.
Dame Mary Perkins, Chair of the Games’ organising committee, commended all those involved for continuing preparations after years of covid disruption. She welcomed the athletes to Guernsey, saying “it’s not a bad island, is it?”.
A representative from official Games sponsor NatWest International said she hopes this can be the “best Games ever”.
Pictured (top): Thousands walking down the Town Quay. Credit: David Ferguson.
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