BRING IT ON
Athletes and tourists under starter’s orders as celebration of sport arrives
THE Glasgow 2018 European Championships officially get under way today, presenting Scotland with another opportunity to shine in the world of sports. The party kicks off today before the main event takes centre stage over the next 11 days, bringing together many of the most outstanding men and women on the planet in their respective fields. As co-host, Glasgow can once again prove the perfect host for major sporting events, just as it did during the Commonwealth Games four years ago. This year’s Championships events have been split between two great cities – Glasgow and Berlin, with the German capital hosting the athletics and track events. George Square will be packed later today as the Great Big Opening Party takes place featuring artists and musicians such as Scotland’s Nina Nesbitt and Mercury Music Prize nominee C Duncan. A 14-metre wide handshake between giant friends, which has been designed by contemporary artists Joanne Tatham and Tom O’Sullivan, will welcome visitors to the square and Festival 2018.
Community groups have also been working hard to help ensure the square will have loads of familyfriendly activities to enjoy for free.
Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken said: “After all the preparations and hard work, it’s almost time for the celebrations to begin.”
Spectators and competitors have already been flooding in to Scotland from across Europe to support their respective nations.
And fans will flock from around Scotland to cheer on their own hopefuls at venues in and around Glasgow, Edinburgh, Hamilton, Loch Lomond and Gleneagles.
The GB team have high hopes in a number of events with big names attending including cycling pair Jason and Laura Kenny and swimmer Adam Peaty.
There are especially-high expectations for Scots swimmers in the squad.
Duncan Scott won six medals
including gold in the 100m freestyle for Scotland at April’s Commonwealth Games in Australia.
In doing so, he became the first Scot to win six medals at a Games.
Ross Murdoch and Mark Szaranek are also expected to be among the medal contenders.
The women’s squad includes Hannah Miley and Kathleen Dawson, who will also be hoping to clinch medals at Glasgow’s Tollcross Pool.
Miley will have her work cut out as she comes up against a top field including three-time Olympic champion Katinka Hosszu of Hungary.
The rowing events which take place at Strathclyde Country Park include Scot Harry Leask.
The GB squad also includes defending European champion Vicky Thornly, from Wales.
Glaswegian Marc Austin and Grant Sheldon from Hamilton will compete in the triathlon.