The Guernsey2023 NatWest International Island Games is just days away. Whether you’re a spectator, volunteer, or athlete, the event will probably touch the lives of every island resident, so here are the answers to some frequently asked questions:

When are the Games?

Guernsey2023 is happening from 8-14 July. The opening ceremony will take place along the Town seafront and it will be a heart-pumping, music-filled spectacle. One of the highlights will the parade of the 2,194 athletes from North Beach to the Albert Pier.

The seafront will be closed from 4pm on Saturday 8 July, with entertainment starting from 5pm. The ceremonial element will include the symbolic mixing of the waters, which is the Island Games’ equivalent of the lighting of the Olympic flame.

Closer to the time an opening ceremony rehearsal will take place. The opening ceremony will set the tone for the whole event, so members of the public are encouraged to come out, watch, wave, and cheer.

Do I need tickets?

No. The opening ceremony and all of the sports events are free for spectators to come and watch. Therefore, there are no tickets at all. Part of the ethos of the Games is that they are accessible to everyone.

Please bear in mind that there are a few venues where audience capacity may be reached at certain points, and marshals may have to temporarily restrict entry. In particular, the viewing gallery overlooking the Beau Sejour swimming pool is fairly small. However, extra seating is being organised alongside the pool, and the Beau Sejour theatre will have a big screen showing the live swimming races.

Is there a programme of events?

Yes. The outline programme is available here.

In total there are 205 events across the six days of live sport, encompassing approximately 480 heats, races, and matches.

Which sports are involved?

There are 14 sports in Guernsey2023. They are archery, athletics, badminton, basketball, bowls, cycling, football, golf, sailing, shooting, swimming, table tennis, tennis, and triathlon.

Read this article to find out more about each sport and the venues where they are taking place.

Will there be road closures?

Yes, but not many! The organisers are committed to creating an environment where people can enjoy the Games events, whilst also being able to go about their day-to-day activities.

There will be some short temporary road closures in order to ensure the safe and smooth running of the road-based events (cycling, triathlon, and the half marathon). In total, there are three races that require road closures around the west coast and upper parishes, and a further three races that necessitate the closure of the Town seafront. The opening ceremony will also take place on the Town seafront, and the closing ceremony will see Foote’s Lane closed.

Which islands are competing?

The 24 competing islands are dotted across the globe from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean, the North Atlantic to the Caribbean. This article has information on each island including population and history.

Can I watch events online?

Guernsey2023 will be the most connected Games ever. Many sports will be livestreamed through the official Guernsey Games website. Special software will provide an up-to-the-minute results service showing results just in, rolling results, medal winners, and the medal table.

What happens after the Games?

The legacy of the Games will go well beyond the field of play, so it doesn’t just all stop on 14 July. The aim of the youth programme is that every child in Guernsey should have the chance to watch, learn, and be excited about the Games. It can be a catalyst to inspire young people to reach for their full potential, and live happier, healthier lives.

Sure is also upgrading all of the sporting venues with up to 60x faster broadband speeds. Technology and sport go hand-in-hand these days, so this will be an important enhancement for the island’s sports clubs.

We hope you enjoy the Games!

Related: The history of the NatWest International Island Games