A fantastic showcase of Manx sporting talent is how Graham Cregeen MHK described the Isle of Man’s Commonwealth Games team as proceedings got underway in Australia’s Gold Coast earlier today.
The Minister for Education, Sport and Culture sent his best wishes to Team Isle of Man following a glittering opening ceremony that fired the starting gun for 11 days of sporting action.
Echoing comments from the Island’s Chief Minister, Mr Cregeen said:
'Our Commonwealth Games team is a fantastic showcase of the Isle of Man’s sporting talent. Given our size, the Island often punches above its weight in international sporting events and I hope that trend continues at these Games.
'We are committed through our ten year strategy to supporting more people to be more active, more often. The Isle of Man Government continues to invest significantly in sport and this is clearly reaping rewards. However the time, effort and dedication of athletes, coaches and their families cannot be underestimated and it is to these individuals who we must pay tribute.'
The Isle of Man is fielding competitors in eight of 23 sports with a 32-strong team.
The Minister added:
'I join the Isle of Man community in wishing our competitors the very best of luck at what is a truly world-class sporting event. Like many, I will be following the action closely and will be hoping for success. Our athletes will fly the Manx flag with pride and we look forward to welcoming them on their safe return home..
The Commonwealth Games is the biggest international multi-sport event in which the Isle of Man competes as an independent nation, having first taken part in 1958.
