Orkney is to be considered to host the 2023 Island Games after securing the backing required from the Inter Island Games Association (IIGA) Executive Committee.
A final decision over who is to host the 2023 games will take place on July 7. Representatives from Orkney Island Games Association, Orkney Islands Council and EventScotland will travel to Gibraltar, the host for the 2019 games, to argue the case in favour of Orkney hosting the games.
Orkney has been represented at the Island Games since the events inception in 1985 and the development of high-class sporting facilities on the island have put Orkney into prime position to welcome all 24 member islands to the isle.
Liam McArthur MSP, Orkney 2023 bid chairman, said: “A lot of hard work has gone into preparing Orkney’s bid to host the 2023 Island Games and we’re delighted to receive this positive endorsement from the International Island Games Executive Committee.
“It follows a highly successful IIGA inspection visit last year, which showcased what Orkney has to offer in terms of excellent sporting facilities and a real appetite to put on a high quality Games.
“Putting the community at the heart of our bid, of course, will be crucial to giving international visitors a real flavour of Orkney and its people, while also delivering a world class Games.”
The event is expected to attract over 2,000 athletes with organisers drawing on the unique culture, heritage and traditions Orkney has to offer.