Representing Ynys Môn on the world stage

MORE than 100 athletes flew out to the Baltic on Friday to represent the Isle of Anglesey on the sporting stage.

Ynys Môn sent a team of 129 athletes, coaches and supporters, incorporating young first timers and experienced representatives, to the 17th International Island Games.

Competitors take part in nine of 14 sports, including swimming, cycling, football and athletics.

The Games, in which the island has taken part since the event’s inception in 1985, is being held on the Swedish island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea until this Friday (June 30). The athletes raised much of the costs themselves thanks to various fundraising events.

Each of the 24 member islands were asked to take water from their surrounding sea, which is then collected and poured into a fountain at the opening ceremony. The fountain continues to flow for the duration of the Games.

Anglesey’s water collection ceremony took place earlier this week against the backdrop of the Menai suspension bridge. Footballer Cai Powell-Roberts (left), who has been selected as Ynys Môn’s water carrier during the Games, took part in the ceremony, alongside athlete Connor Laverty, who was the island’s flag bearer for the opening ceremony. Gareth Parry, manager of the men’s football team, said: “Cai will be taking part in his first Games this year, but will be a vital member of an Anglesey Football squad with huge potential.”