DELEGATES from all corner of the Commonwealth had a tour of the West Midlands as part of preparations for Birmingham 2022.
More than 90 delegates representing 58 nations and territories were shown venues, villages and met with key members of staff from Birmingham 2022 and the Commonwealth Games Federation, to discuss important topics such as sport, village accommodation, accreditation, ceremonies and transport.
Included in the four-day visit have been tours of the transformed Alexander Stadium, which will host the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, as well as the athletics and Para athletics events.
The delegates were also taken to three campus villages for the Games at the University of Warwick, the NEC and the University of Birmingham.
The latter two sites are also locations for competition venues and training venues, so are key hubs for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
The representatives from the international teams were also given a warm welcome at official events hosted by Birmingham City Council, University of Birmingham, Commonwealth Games England and the Commonwealth Games Federation.
Lovie Santana, chef de mission for the Trinidad and Tobago team, said: “Birmingham is a beautiful city and I think one of the things that stood out for me, coming from the Caribbean and coming from a friendly country, is that I feel that same energy here.
“Based on what we have seen over the last few days, I think there is a lot of excitement for the Games. We are in the final stages of preparation and going through our qualification phases. We are looking forward to being here for the Games.”
Commonwealth Games Federation chief executive, Katie Sadleir, said: “It has been wonderful to have so many of our Commonwealth Games Associations in Birmingham.
“After such a difficult period that has prevented us from travelling and being together, the open days this week have made the 2022 Commonwealth Games feel that bit closer.
“I know all of the Commonwealth Games Associations have been impressed with preparations for Birmingham 2022 and alongside our 72 nations and territories, we will deliver an event that will showcase the very best of the city, the country, and the Commonwealth.”
