WATCH: Guernsey to host delayed Island Games in 2023

Wednesday 09 December 2020

The International Island Games Association has announced that the next Island Games will go ahead in Guernsey in 2023.

Earlier this year it was announced that the 2021 Natwest Island Games would be postponed due to covid-19 restrictions.

“Although the outcome of the consultation supported 2023,” said the Chair of the IIGA, Jorgen Pettersson, “we have tried hard to find solutions in order to do what we are meant to be doing – develop sports within our islands.”

“The pandemic has changed our lives and substantially impacted all our Member Islands, both health-wise and economically."

Video: "Work is being done to update agreements with funding bodies," said Mr Pettersson

All future games have been moved forward two years, this will see Orkney hosting in 2025, Ynes Mon in 2027 and the Isle of Man will be the preferred host for 2029.

The decision was made after an extensive consultation process.

Mr Pettersson said it has not been an easy decision for the committee to make.

“It is fair to say that we all feel disappointment to not be able to meet and compete until 2023. Sports and friendships have created legacies, memories, passion and ambitions in all our Member Islands.”

Pictured: "We fully support the decision of the IIGA," said chair of the Guernsey Organising Committee, Dame Mary Perkins (middle).

President of the Committee for Education, Sport & Culture, Deputy Andrea Dudley-Owen, said it’s now an opportunity to fully prepare for the best Island Games Guernsey can offer.

“Noting the excellent news that we have a decision on 2023, it enables us to work with the Guernsey Organising Committee in pulling plans together in line with our sporting strategy for the Bailiwick.”

Pictured top: Athletes haven't had the chance to prepare for any possible Games in 2021.