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SOURCE: COMMONWEALTH SPORT- The King’s Baton Relay touched down in Antigua and Barbuda on 22 April, beginning its journey across the twin-island nation in style with a spectacular Glow Parade through the streets of St. John’s.
Held after dark, the mile-long procession brought together athletes from every sporting discipline, walking side-by-side from Country Pond to the YMCA.
With glow sticks in hand, colourful accessories lighting the way, and the sound of Iron Band music filling the air, the city came alive. Traditional cultural characters joined the crowds, and the atmosphere was electric.
Among those taking part were the CGA President, Secretary General, and Executive Members, walking alongside residents in a shared show of pride, unity and celebration.
Earlier in the day, the Baton made a stop at the headquarters of Good Humans 268, a local organisation focused on youth empowerment and community development.
It was a fitting start, grounding the Relay in the values of compassion, inclusion, and positive action that sit at the heart of the Commonwealth.
That evening, a special ceremony was held to officially unveil the Baton. Among the dignitaries in attendance were His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda; Hon. E. P. Chet Greene, CGA President; Mr. Max Hurst, Government Chief of Staff; King’s Baton Relay Chairman Neil Cochrane; and artist Heather Doram, whose creative vision shaped Antigua and Barbuda’s distinctive Baton design.
Doram’s work draws on key elements of national identity: the pink sandy beaches of Barbuda, the soaring frigate bird, the twin spires of St. John’s Cathedral, and the historic sugar mill at Betty’s Hope.
Each detail tells a story, making the Baton not just a symbol of the Games, but of the islands themselves.
Throughout the week, the Baton continued its journey, visiting a series of community institutions that reflect the country’s commitment to inclusion and shared experience.
These included the Adele School, the School of the Deaf, the Sunshine Home for Girls, Bowers Boys Training School, and the Fiennes Institute. At every stop, people had a chance to see the Baton up close and feel a little closer to the Games.
On 25 April, the Baton was proudly displayed at Heritage Quay, one of St. John’s most popular waterfront spots, before crossing to Barbuda. There, it was welcomed at the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, home to the largest colony of frigate birds in the Western Hemisphere.
Visits to Holy Trinity Primary and Secondary Schools gave students a unique chance to engage with the Baton and the Commonwealth message it carries.
The final day of the Relay featured a community Recycle Pick-Up at Shell Beach, an initiative that not only closed the Relay on a high note but underscored the islands’ commitment to sustainability.
The event tied in with the wider Commonwealth Clean Oceans Plastic Campaign, reinforcing the message of environmental responsibility.
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The customized baton designed by Heather Doram beautifully showcases our rich cultural heritage.
Kudos to the organizers for highlighting sustainability alongside athletic celebration.
Such events not only promote sports but also foster national pride and unity.
The relay’s activities resonate with our national values of unity, culture, and sustainability.