The Orkney 2025 Island Games are officially underway, and Western Isles athletes have touched down ready to compete, connect and carry the hopes of their communities into one of the biggest sporting events of the year.
Over 100 members of the Western Isles Island Games Association (WIIGA) squad including athletes, coaches, medics and managers have arrived in Orkney for a week of world-class competition across 10 sports.
This year marks a double milestone for the team, with 2025 marking their 10th Games appearance and the 20th anniversary of their first outing in Shetland back in 2005.
With more than 4,000 participants expected across the Games, the atmosphere is electric and the pride is palpable.
Cllr Kenny Macleod, Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, has travelled with the team as the Comhairle’s official representative and says the sense of occasion is matched only by the sense of unity.
“I would like to wish all athletes and management teams the best of luck as they begin their competitions here in Orkney,” he said.
“To earn a place on the team for any sport takes real dedication, and each member of this squad has shown just how much talent we have across our islands.”
“It is a huge honour to represent your home, and I look forward to witnessing what I know will be another memorable chapter in our sporting story.”
He also thanked the Orkney 2025 organisers for delivering such a vibrant and welcoming Games environment.
Leader of the Comhairle, Cllr Paul Steele, paid tribute to the vast volunteer effort that powers the team, much of it behind the scenes.
“Participation in the Island Games would not be possible without the work of the WIIGA Committee, chaired by Cllr Norrie ‘Tomsh’ MacDonald, as well as volunteer coaches, families and Comhairle staff,” he said.
“Team Manager Iain GG Campbell and his team have worked flat out to get everything in place for Orkney, and coaches in each sport have done a fantastic job preparing our athletes to perform at their best.”
“Thank you to everyone who has helped bring this team to life and to every athlete now wearing the WIIGA badge, we’re with you every step of the way.”
With competition now underway, the week ahead promises triumphs, challenges and unforgettable moments for all involved.
For the athletes, it’s a chance to compete at the highest level.
For the communities they represent, it’s a moment of shared pride and celebration.
And for WIIGA, it’s proof that sport, especially in the islands, is about more than medals, it’s about connection, commitment, and the power of showing up.
