Scottish Grocer’s Commonwealth Games series begins
EXCITEMENT is building ahead of one of Scotland’s many big events of a very important year – the Commonwealth Games of Glasgow 2014.
At Scottish Grocer we’re also excited, and we’re here to help retailers make the most of the opportunity.
In coming months we’ll be offering ideas, tips and useful information to help operators make the most of the Games this summer.
What are the sports?
Some 17 sports each feature a number of events in 2014. They are: Aquatics (swimming and diving); Athletics (track and field including the marathon); Badminton; Boxing; Cycling (including time trials and the road race); Gymnastics; Hockey; Judo; Lawn Bowls; Netball; Rugby Sevens; Shooting; Squash; Table Tennis; Triathlon; Weightlifting; and Wrestling.
Who can we expect to see?
There are rumours that Usain Bolt will run the 200m but the speedy superstar has yet to officially confirm his attendance. It’s hoped Bradley Wiggins will be back on his bike and Mark Cavendish will also cycle in. Long-jumper Greg Rutherford will attend.
Team Scotland should be on top form, with runner Eilidh Child confirmed for the 400m hurdles. Runners Jamie Bowie, Chris O’Hare and Eilish McColgan are also on the list along with cyclists Charline Joiner, Eileen Roe and Kate Archibald. Robbie Renwick, the Scottish swimmer who won gold in Delhi, is also competing.
Looking further afield, legendary St Kitts sprinter Kim Collins could be there and hurdler Perri Shakes-Drayton may appear if she recovers from a serious knee injury.
Highlights to look out for
If Bolt does turn up expect much of the world to be watching as he attempts to take his first Commonwealth medal.
Gymnastics events will be another crowd pleaser due to its increased exposure in recent years thanks to the likes of Louis Smith and Beth Tweddle appearing on TV shows Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing on Ice. Tweddle has retired, but look out for Smith and Scottish competitor Daniel Purvis making their mark.
Cycling is set to be a huge Commonwealth Games attraction, despite the absence of Sir Chris Hoy.
And it’s not all about Glasgow. Diver Tom Daley will take to the boards at the Royal Commonwealth Pool in Edinburgh as part of the aquatics programme.
Next time..
Coming up in our April and May issues:
• The Baton Relay heads to Scotland for the final leg of the tour
• Ideas and themes to help you make the most of the Games
• Where spectators will be watching the events and how retailers can capitalise on the ‘big day in’
• Legal advice on merchandising connected to the games
