Posted on 11.04.18
Orkney sets sights on securing Island Games for 2023
Orkney’s bid to host the 2023 Island Games is one step closer to reality after it received the backing of the International Island Games Association (IIGA) Executive Committee.
Following an inspection visit to Orkney by an IIGA delegation in November 2017, a report was presented at the Committee meeting at the end of March and the IIGA has recommended that Orkney can successfully host the 2023 event.
The final decision, however, will be taken by all 24 member islands at the IIGA AGM, which takes place on 7th July in Gibraltar, the host for the next Games in 2019. Orkney’s Bid Committee, which includes representatives from the Orkney Island Games Association, Orkney Islands Council and EventScotland, on behalf of Scottish Government, will present their proposals at the AGM and respond to any questions member islands might have.
Orkney has been a member of the International Island Games Association since its inception in 1985 and for a number of years has had aspirations to host the Games. The recent development of high-class sports facilities has put Orkney in prime position to secure this international multi-sport event, which would attract up to 2,000 visitors to the islands.
The event is also a chance to celebrate the best of Orkney through its place, produce and people as well as opportunities to create a lasting sporting legacy for the islands, whether through participation or the development of coaching and other supporting roles.
The host islands can choose between 12 and 14 different sports for their Games. Following the bid committee’s close work with local sporting bodies, the 2023 Island Games is set to feature 13 sports - Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Clay Shooting, Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Lawn Bowls, Road Cycling, Sailing, Squash, Swimming and Triathlon.
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