Malta set to welcome the Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay
The Maltese Olympic Committee and Commonwealth Games Association of Malta, is set to welcome the Queen’s Baton in Malta, as the Queen’s Baton was unveiled last week.
The Queen’s Baton Relay is a Commonwealth Games tradition that celebrates, connects and excites communities from across the Commonwealth during the build up to the Games. The next edition of the Commonwealth Games is set to take place in 2022 and will be hosted by Birmingham.
The Relay begins on 7 October 2021 at Buckingham Palace, where Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will place Her message to the Commonwealth into the Baton. The Baton then takes on an incredible 294-day journey through all nations and territories of the Commonwealth, arriving back in England in July 2022.
The Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay will visit all 72 nations and territories of the Commonwealth yet will travel almost half the distance than the previous Gold Coast Queen’s Baton Relay in a bid to reduce the carbon footprint.
The Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay will arrive in Malta on Monday 11th October, from Cyprus, where it will be welcomed by Mr. Julian Pace Bonello and Mr. Joseph Cassar, President and Secretary General of the Maltese Olympic Committee and Commonwealth Games Association of Malta.
During each visit, nations and territories will host events and activities that showcase untold stories from Batonbearers, athletes, and young people who are striving for change in their community, as well as showcasing a project that addresses at least one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Secretary General Joseph Cassar outlined the programme for the Baton’s visit which will cover a number of local communities around Malta and Gozo. The Baton will also visit His Excellency, The President of the Republic Dr. George Vella, The British High Commission as well as a number of local dignitaries.
A number of local athletes have been appointed as Baton Bearers. These athletes have been chosen based on their achievements and represent the spirit of the Commonwealth and serve as an inspiration to others. Neil Agius, Fabio Spiteri and Jake Vella have been appointed as Game Changers, individuals who have through their endeavours attempted to improve the lives of others and the environment around them.
“Malta always looks forward to welcoming the Queen’s Baton. This traditional event is one which we eagerly await each time. It renews our enthusiasm for the Games, particularly in a time where the pandemic has disrupted so many events”, explained Mr. Julian Pace Bonello.
After departing from Malta, the Baton will continue on its 294day route and will make its way to Nigeria
Detailed information on the Queen’s Baton Relay will be available on www.nocmalta.org
The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games will see 4,500 athletes from 72 nations and territories taking part in 11 days of spectacular sport, from 28 July – 8 August 2022.