Hambantota, a blueprint for other C’wealth nations - CGF

The five-member Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) Evaluation Commission that conducted inspections on the Hambantota and Gold Coast for the 2018 Games has concluded that there are huge benefits of bringing the Commonwealth Games to Sri Lanka.

“Hambantota presents an exciting opportunity for the Commonwealth Games to assist in the development of the city and the country in a substantial and impactful way,” the Report said.

“The proposition could provide a blueprint for other Commonwealth nations.” The Report commends the support for the Hambantota bid - particularly from President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

“The feasibility of the proposition is dependent on a number of factors, including the continued growth of Sri Lanka’s economy, ongoing political support and stability and the management of a substantial financing and development risk relating to the Games-specific and city-wide infrastructure program,” the Report said.

The all-important decision on whether the Games will be awarded to Australia or Sri Lanka is set for St Kitts and Nevis on November 11 at the CGF General Assembly.

The Commission’s Report has been sent to all the CGF’s 71-member nations and territories to help inform them of the technical merits of each proposal. The Commission Chair Loiuse Martin paid tribute to both candidates as they approach the final stage of their battle for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

“My colleagues and I would like to thank the candidate cities for the passion, enthusiasm and sheer hard work they’ve put into their bids,” said Martin, who is also the CGF Honorary Secretary.

“The Commission was challenged by significant differences presented by each city. On the one hand, the Gold Coast presents a high level of infrastructure. Conversely, Hambantota provides the opportunity to develop a largely greenfield site. It’s now for the Commonwealth Games family to decide on whether their athletes head to the Gold Coast or Hambantota in 2018.”

Ahead of the vote, the two candidate cities will each give brief presentation to the CGF General Assembly following which will be the formal vote - which will be done electronically for the first time in CGF history. The announcement of the Host City will be made at 6.00pm (local time.) The Gold Coast and Sri Lanka are confident of success.