The next Commonwealth Games are 286 days away, but the journey there has already begun with the Queen’s Baton Relay making the rounds among Commonwealth nations.
On July 1, the Virgin Islands will host the baton, which is carrying Queen Elizabeth II’s Commonwealth Games message, officials of the BVI Olympic Committee said during a press conference on Monday.
“This is a unique event and occasion for all who reside in the BVI to come together in the spirit of friendship and unity, and we strongly urge everyone to make an effort to join in where they can,” said BVIOC President Ephraim Penn.
The baton will be carried through the territory by current and former athletes as well as residents who have contributed to the VI in some way, Mr. Penn explained.
An official welcome ceremony will be held on July at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park, where Premier Dr. Orlando Smith will officially receive the baton. A baton relay will then be held through Road Town before heading to Virgin Gorda on July 4.
To round off the relay, there will be a cultural evening at the Central Administration Building, where a coal pot cook-off is being planned, organisers said.
The baton is scheduled to leave the VI July 5 on its way to Jamaica.
The games will begin on April 4, 2018 with more than 6,600 competitors from 70 nations.
During the press conference, the BVIOC also announced seven athletes and one tennis player who will represent the VI at the upcoming Commonwealth Youth Games scheduled to take place from July 19-23 in the Bahamas (see sidebar).
Commonwealth Youth Games VI reps
Arianna Hayde – Long Jump and Javelin
Rackeel Jack – 400 metres
Joshua Hill – 400 metres
Mikkel Bassue – 100 and 200 metres
Beyonce Defreitas – 200 metres
Djimon and Diamante Gumbs – Shot put and discus
Adrian Baijnauth – Tennis
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