he Earl of Wessex wished Commonwealth Games participants the best of luck in achieving their best and inspiring the next generation, in a message released ahead of the event’s opening ceremony.
EdwardSpeaking in his role as vice-patron of the Commonwealth Games Federation, described the sports championships, affectionately known as the Friendly Games, as the “greatest manifestation of the Commonwealth”.
The Commonwealth Games, hosted by the city Birminghamlaunches Thursday evening and promises to be the UK’s biggest sports festival since the London Olympics a decade ago.
The Prince of Wales represents the Queen at the opening ceremony, where he will read the Sovereign’s message to the Games, which she placed in the Commonwealth Games Baton.
It has circumnavigated the globe on a 294-day voyage to all 72 countries and territories of the Commonwealth.
The Earl said in his message: “To all athletes, officials, spectators and visitors I extend a warm welcome and thank you all for coming. Without you it just wouldn’t be the great sports festival it is.
“Yet the Games are more than just about sport, they are the greatest manifestation of the Commonwealth: our extraordinary collection of countries linked by a myriad of bonds of common interests and relationships.
“The parallel arts festival is an integral part of this celebration, reminding us of our shared values and the tremendous talent that exists in our family of nations.
“The stage is now set and the show is about to begin. To everyone involved in the production, be it behind the scenes or front-of-house: thank you, good luck and enjoy. I know from all your preparations that you want to make Birmingham 2022 a brilliant and unforgettable experience.
“It is up to those who actually have to take the stage, the performers and those who are about to compete, that I wish the best of luck, to do your best and inspire the next generation.
“Whatever your role or involvement, I hope you have an experience of a lifetime and enjoy every moment.”
Over the next 11 days, more than 5,000 athletes from 72 countries will compete in 280 events across 19 sports.
Members of the Royal Family, including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Royal and Earl and Countess of Sussex, will attend events celebrating the Games, meet participants, volunteers and support staff, tour venues and attend sports competitions.
Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said the city was “buzzing” and defended the cost of hosting the Games at a time when the country faces a crisis in the cost of living.
The event had a budget of £778 million, funded by the Birmingham Government and City Council.
Birmingham got the Games after South Africa’s scheduled host Durban withdrew due to financial difficulties.