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The upcoming 2025 Orkney International Island Games has secured a significant boost, with Orkney Builders stepping forward as its largest sponsor.
The construction firm has committed to providing not just financial support but also a broad range of in-kind services critical for the smooth running of the week-long event.
The Games is celebrating its 40th anniversary, with 2,000 competitors from 24 islands set to compete in 12 sports, making it the most extensive multi-sport event in Europe for the year.
Behind Orkney Builders' commitment is Stephen Kemp, its Managing Director, who is tied to the Games through a personal connection – his wife, Aly, is a long-distance runner who won bronze in the 10,000 at Guernsey 2023.
Kemp has also volunteered for the event and has encouraged his approximately 85 employees to participate, whether that is competing or volunteering.
"As a construction company, we have a lot of skilled resource available," Kemp said, expressing his belief in the impact his team can make.
Pictured: Aly Kemp with a pair of shoes supplied last-minute by Fletcher Sports after she discovered hers were not track legal. She went on to win bronze in the 10,000m at Guernsey 2023.
"I went along to the Guernsey Games as a family to support Aly who was there to compete, and it was incredible to see first-hand the huge force of local volunteers coming together to support the event.
"There was always someone there to help meet the needs of visitors and athletes from across the various island groups, and I would love to see that same energy being delivered here in Orkney."
Gordon Deans, the Chair of the Orkney 2025 Games, echoed Kemp's sentiments on the critical role of community and business support in making the Games a triumph.
Orkney 2025 International Island Games is principally funded by Orkney Islands Council and EventScotland.
The 12 sports are Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Cycling, Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Lawn Bowls, Sailing, Squash, Swimming, and Triathlon.
Pictured top: Stephen and Aly Kemp celebrate at the Guernsey Island Games.
Orkney's Aly Kemp won bronze in the 10,000m at Guernsey 2023 despite finding out her shoes weren't track legal.
Fletcher Sports stepped in to supply her with some fulfilling the Island Games reputation as being the 'friendly games'.
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