In a ceremony likened to lighting the Olympic torch, the Opening Ceremony of the NatWest Island games sees representatives from the 24 participating islands pour water from their respective islands to combine together as a symbol of unity and solidarity. The opening of the 2023 Guernsey hosting of the games is Saturday 8th July and will see the coming together of all the participants in Guernsey’s beautiful capital St Peter Port. Water is the element which surrounds and separates islands leading to the name islanders so it is an apt ritual seen at every games since 1991.

Guernsey has picked indoor bowler, and very recently married, Catherine Bonsall and swimmer Hannah Kennedy as the island’s Water Carriers, both debutants.

“I feel proud and honoured to be asked to perform such an important part in the opening ceremony,” said Catherine. “For indoor bowls to get such recognition is amazing and I can’t wait for it all to start. The Island games represents so much to so many people. To have been selected to play for my Island was an honour in itself. But to get to do this too is very exciting, especially at a home games.”

Catherine is leading for Alison Merrien MBE in the Open Triples event which will be lived streamed with links from Guernsey Indoor Bowls Facebook and Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@guernseyindoorbowling2440

Catherine’s first game is at 12noon on Sunday 9th July where the Guernsey Women’s triple will face the strong Jersey Men’s triple with live action of the game available why don’t you tune in?

Janice Gower