July 2025

9 ing athletics, swimming, cycling, badmin- ton, squash, archery, football (soccer), and more specialized events like shooting and sailing. While some islands field large del - egations with structured training programs, others send smaller squads, driven purely by community pride and volunteer coach- ing. Regardless of size, each team carries the same hopes: personal bests, fair play, and the chance to place their island’s name on the medal table. One unique aspect of the Island Games is the diversity of participants. Teams come from islands with varying political statuses, cul- tures, and populations. For example, Jersey and Guernsey have established sports infra- structures, while smaller islands like Sark (with a population under 500) may send only a handful of competitors. The Faroe Islands, Åland, Gotland, and Greenland bring Nor- dic grit and long-distance travel challenges, while Bermuda, Saint Helena, and the Cay- man Islands inject tropical flair. The Games are as much about cultural exchange as they are about athletic excellence. Beyond the competitions themselves, hosting the Island Games offers significant benefits to Orkney. Local businesses—from hotels and guesthouses to cafés and taxi services— anticipate a surge in customers, injecting vital funds into the island economy. Organizers also expect long-term gains, in- cluding improved sports infrastructure, enhanced youth pro- grams, and strengthened community confidence. For young people growing up in Orkney, witnessing high-level athletes compete in their hometown can be transformative, inspiring future participation in sports and community events. Cultural events will run alongside the sporting program, giving visitors a taste of Orkney’s artistic life and heritage. Tradition- al music performances, craft markets, and storytelling sessions are scheduled to take place throughout the week, allowing ath- letes and supporters to immerse themselves in the local culture between competitions. These celebrations remind everyone that while the Games revolve around sport, they are rooted in a broader mission of fostering friendship and understanding among islands. The Island Games remain a testament to the power of sport to transcend scale and geography. They prove that even small islands can dream big, achieve greatness, and welcome the world with open arms. This July, as Orkney hosts competitors from across seas and cultures, one truth will echo across its fields, tracks, and harbors: strength lies not in size, but in spirit. Photo by | kirstin-shearer-photography