'Largest event ever held in Orkney' opens as global competitors arrive
Athletes will compete for medals in 12 sports: archery, athletics, badminton, bowls, cycling, football, golf, gymnastics, sailing, squash, swimming, and triathlon.
The games will run until July 18 and are expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors to Orkney, which is said to be the smallest island group to ever host the event.
Mascot Ola the Orca shows off the tartan for the games (Image: Ken Amer/Orkney 2025 International Island Games) The Scottish Government said it was the first of a series of high-profile sporting events being hosted in Scotland over the next few years, which include this weekend's Genesis Scottish Open, the 2026 Commonwealth Games, the 2027 Grand Départ of the Tour de France, the 2027 Open Championship, and the 2028 UEFA European football championships.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead said: 'The Orkney Island Games represent a significant opportunity to drive economic growth and build a lasting legacy for people and businesses in Orkney and beyond.
'They also provide a taste of what is to come and illustrate our wider ambition to make sure every corner of Scotland benefits from the prestigious events we are increasingly able to attract.
READ MORE: Michael Shanks claims cutting Scots' energy bills not worth 'trade-off'
'This is a team effort and the benefits go way beyond the events themselves. The global platform they provide enables us to highlight Scotland to tourists, businesses and potential inward investors across the world.'
Anne, the Princess Royal, is to attend the opening ceremony of the games, which will be held in Kirkwall on Saturday.
All of the sporting events and the opening ceremony are free for all to attend.
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