‘Majority of people supportive of Games despite road closures’
ISLAND GAMES organisers are encouraging residents of the western parishes to get into the spirit of the Games.
Cycling coordinator Gary Wallbridge would love to see thousands of people at the end of their driveways to cheer on competitors in the women’s and men’s road races.
‘The route involves some difficult climbs up from Pleinmont and up the Coudre, so it will be a challenge but also a really good watch. The vast majority of residents and businesses I’ve spoken to have been really supportive about it, even with the road closures,’ he said.
Another information blitz starts today to remind residents and businesses of road closures during Island Games week.
Guernsey Post will deliver 3,500 leaflets this week to properties along and around race routes in the western parishes and on the coast.
More than 2,000 posters will go out to businesses and this morning volunteers started putting them up along the roads affected.
The material includes information about entry and exit points from closed roads and the timing of closures.
Games communications and events director Amanda Hibbs said organisers were working closely with other agencies to make the island well aware of traffic changes during the Games, which runs from 8-14 July.
‘Business organisations, community care teams, private care agencies and relevant charities have all been given advance notice,’ she said.
During Games week, roads will be reopened as soon as it is safe, with most roads scheduled to reopen within five hours of closing.
The exceptions to this are at the southern end of Rocquaine for triathlon events and on the last day in Town and at Footes Lane.
During a road closure, there will be no vehicular access along the route, with residents and customers of businesses even unable to use their driveways.
But access will be maintained at all times for the emergency services and pedestrians.
Guernsey women’s cycling team member Karina Jackson welcomed the opportunity to compete on closed roads.
‘It will mean we can fully go for it without having to worry about traffic hazards. We are training for six days a week at the moment. It’s become more of a lifestyle rather than just a hobby,’ she said.
Guernsey women’s triathlon team member Amy Critchlow said that closed roads would make a big difference to the quality of races.
‘It will hopefully elevate the level to something resembling a world-class standard. There are three professional triathletes competing as well, so spectators are in for a treat,’ she said.
Teammate Emily Squire hoped Guernsey could retain the team gold they won at the last Games in Gibraltar in 2019.
‘It will be special competing at a home Island Games. It brings with it a whole new level of stress, but I hope we can make the island proud,’ she said.
