Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA) has shifted its attention to the Trinbago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games in the wake of the Victorian government’s decision to scrap the 2026 Commonwealth Games in the state.
Next month’s Commonwealth Youth Games, which platforms the sporting achievements of athletes under 18 years of age, will take place on the Islands of Trinidad and Tobago.
Following State premier Daniel Andrews’ announcement that the 2026 Games will not go ahead, CGA boss Craig Phillips said the organisation is diverting the attention to the pathway athletes competing in Port of Spain.
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“It’s been a challenging time for Commonwealth sport, but our focus now shifts to Trinbago 2023, and the youth athletes set to do Australia proud against more than 1000 athletes from across the world,” he said in a statement.
Australia’s most successful female Paralympic athlete Ellie Cole will lead Australia’s Commonwealth Youth Games Team after transitioning to team leadership following her retirement from para-swimming last August.
“The opportunity to lead this young, energetic and talented team alongside my fellow Birmingham starter Greg Hire is a privilege,” Cole said in a statement.
“I love everything about the Commonwealth Games, particularly the fact that able-bodied and para-athletes compete as one, and I’m hoping to instil that enthusiasm for the movement in those competing in Trinidad and Tobago.”
“This will be the first taste of international competition for a number of athletes, with many no doubt going on to compete at Olympic, Paralympic or, of course, Commonwealth Games, in the future.”
Team Australia, comprising 75 athletes supported by 39 officials, will participate in a three-day pre-departure camp beginning Thursday in Sydney before completing their final preparations in the American city of Houston so acclimatise to the conditions.
The 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games runs from August 4-11.
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