Less than 70 days remain until the start of the XIX Games of the Small States of Europe Opening Ceremony in Valletta. As preparations continue to progress, the Maltese Olympic Committee hosted a meeting for Chefs de Mission and technical delegates representing the nine GSSE Countries for meetings in Malta.
Over twenty-five delegates participated in meetings and presentations relating to events, logistics, medical services, transportation, opening and closing ceremonies as well various venue site visits. The first visit was to athlete accommodation, which is currently undergoing a major refurbishment and will be fully operational a few weeks before the arrival of the first athletes. Delegates were also given a tour of facilities which will host competitions during the Games.
“Undoubtedly the international climate has offered the organisation of these Games several challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the current political climate, we as the Organisation Committee, have no control over. Nonetheless, we have garnered the support of various stakeholders, and sponsors which contribution will help us honour our commitment to deliver “commented Mark Cutajar, Chairman of the Local Organisation Committee. “These Games have their own challenges but must move at par with the challenges that sport is facing around the Globe.”
In the evening, the Maltese Olympic Committee hosted the launch of Team Malta uniforms, in the presence of various Games stakeholders, Government representative, athletes, Federation representatives from the ten sporting disciplines taking place in Malta and other guests. The brand-new Team Malta uniform was modelled by some of Malta’s most recognised athletes, and who will most likely be part of Team Malta during the Games.
Lacey Aquilina, Claire Azzopardi, Steve Camilleri, Francesca Catania, Josephine Diaby, Alex Felice Pace, Beppe Grillo, Sandek Khalaf, Michela Mifsud, Janet Richard, Julian Rizzo, Ashley van Vilet Vella and Nathan Xuereb modelled the uniforms which combine the red and white elements which capture the Maltese flavour, energy and passion – all elements associated with sport. The uniform was designed keeping in mind the warm weather conditions during the Games, meaning that they will provide protection against the ultraviolet radiation as well as breathability. The uniform will consist of tracksuits, t-shirts, polo shirts, caps and backpacks.
“Wearing Team Malta’s uniform is an honour many athletes are vying to have and who will treasure the opportunity to wear this uniform. Their focus towards these Games has been commendable and in the runup to the events, they have been producing consistently encouraging results” remarked Julian Pace Bonello, President, Maltese Olympic Committee.
Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research, and Innovation Dr Clifton Grima praised the work done to host this prestigious event in Malta. “As a team, Ministry, SportMalta and the MOC, we have been giving our all, together with the Sport Associations and the athletes to prepare for these games. We are looking forward to support and applaud our athletes as they keep the Maltese flag flying”.
Photo Credit: Christian Cauchi
The XIX Games of the Small States of Europe are being supported by SportMalta, NDSF, Welbee’s Supermarket, National Lottery, MITA, General Soft Drinks, Visit Malta, European Olympic Committees, Go, Enemed, BOV and The Concept Stadium.
More information on the XIX Games of the Small States of Europe can be found on https://gssemalta2023.mt