WESTERN ISLES COMMUNITY GAMES - Saturday 21st August 2004

Eleven teams took part in the 6th games organised this year by the two island Sports Councils.

Mr Frank McAveety, Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister for the Scottish Parliament officially opened the Games and we were fortunate to have good weather throughout.

There were 42 events finishing with the relay races around 3pm, which gave the Uist team plenty time to catch the evening ferry. Some areas were obviously more organised than others which is reflected in the final scores. The minimum number for a full team is 24 and some areas were lacking in numbers. The results were as follows:

A win for North Uist for the 6th year in succession. They do not win by accident. Organisation, enthusiasm and ability are the qualities needed by the opposition to knock them off the top.

There were several good athletes performing but for the most part it is a team competition with many competing to gain points for their area. There was an outstanding performance by Ian McCorquodale from North Uist in the 17-35, 800 metres. Ian is one of Scotland’s top young middle-distance runners and he won his race in 1 minute, 59.7 seconds. This was the first time on our track that the 2 minute barrier had been broken for 800 metres.

Thanks to all who helped make the day a success. I think everyone enjoyed the day but if we could only encourage more to take part. The next games will be held on June 18th 2005. Please note the date. There will be a short meeting at the P.E Department in the Nicholson Institute on Wednesday1st September at 5pm to discuss the games. If you cannot attend, Steven Munro or Alasdair Dunlop will be glad to hear from you.

Next year sees the Western Isles competing in the Island Games in Shetland. For those athletic stars, the build-up begins with the Western Isles Track and Field Championships on Saturday 11th September. You must pre-enter and order forms are available in schools, Sportsworld and the Sports Centre.

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk