Games Features

As a general rule, opening games ceremonies are generally a mixture of bizarre interpretive dance and musical numbers that leave the audience non-plussed.

This year’s ceremony in Aland was no different. There was an unfunny comedian, followed by some multi-coloured dancers and, bizarrely, a Queen tribute act.

But there was no denying the Alanders enthusiasm for the Island Games and the competitors

There was a rapturous reception for the 260 or so Jersey athletes, the biggest away team at the Games.

The Jersey team enter the arena

The team was proudly led out by one of Jersey’s greatest and long lasting achievers at the games – shooter, David Ward.

Ward told BBC Jersey: "I do get sentimental and emotional about things and I'm sure I'll have a lump in my throat around there.

"It is a real honour, it is not often you get selected to carry your nations flag."

As well as Jersey, each of the other Channel Islands entered the arena led by a flag-bearer from their team.

For Guernsey it was Tim Laine who said he felt: " honoured and privileged, it's a chance of a lifetime."

And one of the smaller teams entering the Games is Sark. Their flag-bearer was Stefan Roberts.

He said: "It's a great honour, it is the second time I've done it. Always proud to carry the flag for Sark."

This year’s ceremony in Aland was no different. There was an unfunny comedian, followed by some multi-coloured dancers and, bizarrely, a Queen tribute act.

Then there was the symbolic water ceremony, first introduced when Aland hosted the Games 18 years ago.

Every island brings water from their homeland and one by one they are mixed together in a special fountain.

Jersey’s water-bearers were Andre Romeril and Amy McDonnell the two youngest members of Jersey’s team.

The Island Games has a tradition of being the 'friendly games' and Aland looks set to continue this.