BERMUDA AND ISLE OF WIGHT BID FOR THE GAMES 2011

Two islands have formally presented their intentions to bid for the hosting rights of the 2011 Island Games, Bermuda and Isle of Wight. The bidding islands now have three months to present their Bid-document. Thereafter the IGA Executive Committee will, following its spring meeting in Aland, give a recommendation to the membership regarding the host for 2011. The final decision will however as always be taken by the Membership at the IGA Annual General Meeting in Rhodes on the 8th July 2006.   Rhodes is the host for the NatWest Island Games 2007, while Aland will take on the task in 2009.

Jon Beard, chairman of Bermuda IGA.
”At present we are meeting with our Government’s Ministry of Youth & Sport, as well as Ministry of Tourism in preparation of a strong bid and presentation to the IGA Executive, and the IGA’s member islands.”

Keith Lane, secretary of Isle of Wight IGA:
”In accordance with Part 5 of the Constitution (Section 21) I am writing to advise you of the intent of the Island Games Association Isle of Wight to bid to stage the 2011 Games.”

Bermuda first competed at the NatWest Island Games in Guernsey in 2003 whilst the Isle of Wight has competed in every Games since their inception in 1985. Isle of Wight hosted the Games of 1993 and was defeated by Rhodes in their attempt to organise the 2007 Games

The Cayman Islands were also planning to bid for 2011 but have withdrawn. Chairman Richard Parchment:
”Due in large part to the rebuilding of facilities after (hurricane) Ivan, and with the knowledge that Bermuda also intends to bid, we will not proceed with the process.”

Brian Partington (Isle of Man) and chairman of the International Island Games Association is pleased with the competition between the two islands:
”It shows the increasing interest for the event which has a major impact on the island that wins. With well over 2.000 competitors from the 25 member-islands and hundreds of accredited media the NatWest Island Games have a significant knock on effects on the society.”

Isle of Man, 10th October 2005
For further information please call chairman Brian Partington, +447624498917