Prince Edward enjoys the NatWest Island Games
Thu, 30 Jun 2011
Prince Edward, Duke of Wessex arrived in the Isle of Wight yesterday morning. The first stop was the Sandown and Shanklin Golf Club where yours truly and the Chairman of the NatWest Island Games 2011, David Ball briefed him about the Association and its development since its beginning in 1985 in the Isle of Man. Prince Edward showed great interest in what has been achieved. After meeting with the players and coaches at the Golf Club the Royal Party made their way to the Fairway Sports Centre to watch some of the Bermuda v Guernsey volleyball game and the heats of the womens 200m event at the athletics track. Hundreds of school children had lined up at the venues and schools to greet His Royal Highness.
In the afternoon the visits continued in Ryde to see Table Tennis and Badminton where the Duke spoke to the competitors about the Games. On a personal level I was really impressed by his genuine interest in both the competitors and our Games. The day finished with a Reception at the Royal Yacht Club where Prince Edward was introduced to representatives of all the Member Islands, the 2011 Organising Committee, IIGA Executive Committee, politicians and sponsors by David Ball and myself.
Today the visit will continue with some of the other sports before the Duke returns home this afternoon.
The NatWest Island Games has so far been a great success, not least in the involvement of the people of the Isle of Wight. We are getting closer now to the final plays in many sports - follow the programme here: www.natwestiowresults2011.com
Jorgen Pettersson
IIGA Chairman
