Dr.Donald Rukare, the Commonwealth Sport President’s Speech at the Closing Ceremony.
By Ssentamu John.
It has been one of courage, bravery, friendship and outstanding innovation. A true bridge to a bright and united future of our Commonwealth.
Tonight, we celebrate an extraordinary 11 days of competition, friendship and shared purpose.
215 medal events, a first ever games medal for Rwanda, a first gold for Dominica, the largest ever Para sport program in our history. And the first medal of the games was awarded to a Para-power lifter. I am incredibly proud of all of you and all your achievements.
To every athlete from our 74 nations and territories, a very big thanks to you. You have truly inspired us, through your excellence, determination and respect for one another.
While medals are won in competition, the greatest legacy of these games is the unity, friendship and inspiration that were shared across our commonwealth family.
It has been one of courage, bravery, friendship and outstanding innovation. A true bridge to a bright and united future of our Commonwealth.
Tonight, we celebrate an extraordinary 11 days of competition, friendship and shared purpose.
215 medal events, a first ever games medal for Rwanda, a first gold for Dominica, the largest ever Para sport program in our history. And the first medal of the games was awarded to a Para-power lifter. I am incredibly proud of all of you and all your achievements.
To every athlete from our 74 nations and territories, a very big thanks to you. You have truly inspired us, through your excellence, determination and respect for one another.
While medals are won in competition, the greatest legacy of these games is the unity, friendship and inspiration that were shared across our commonwealth family.
One outstanding athlete who has truly inspired us is the winner of our David Dickson award this evening. At every games’ an athlete who has delivered outstanding performance and demonstrated fair play and team work is chosen. For this Scottish athlete, winning the women’s T54 1500m in a Commonwealth Games record time was commendable enough.
To then see the race re-run following a crash in the first lap and to respond with grace, dignity and unwavering respect for the process and above all return to win the gold again and even securing an even faster games record performance, was extraordinary.
She exemplified integrity, resilience while inspiring her team mates, competitors and fans alike. She truly embodies the very best of commonwealth Sport.
A very big and hearty congratulation to Melanie as well as commending the athletes and before these games draw to a close, I must thank the thousands of volunteers.
And finally, to the beautiful people of Glasgow and Scotland, once again, you have shown what true Commonwealth Sport hospitality looks like.
You have welcomed us with warmth, generosity and a little bit of rain and I can assure you First Minister, the rain in Scotland is very polite.
I invite you to come to Uganda and witness our rain.
Delivering the games that have been innovative and action packed is really welcome.
These games have demonstrated that the Commonwealth spirit continues to evolve with confidence, creativity and bold ambition. Glasgow hasn’t simply staged other outstanding games’. It has helped shape the future of our movement as we approach a remarkable milestone.
We now look ahead with great excitement to Amdavad India where in 2030; we shall celebrate 100 years of the commonwealth games.
To our friends in India, we pass to you not only these games but a legacy of friendship and a shared passion for sport and the spirit of this green place.
Thank you Glasgow. Thank you Scotland.
