The 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth games look set to break many records and underscore the importance of sport in the world. Known as the ‘Friendly Games,’ this international event will entertain all.
Competition flourishes in Glasgow
As many as 53 nations will participate in this year’s celebration. Previously known as the British Empire Games, the Commonwealth Games rebranded themselves in 1950 to reflect the changes in global politics and alliances.
Today’s spectacle is an opportunity for the very smallest Commonwealth countries to participate against the very largest to celebrate sport and achievement. There are numerous fun Commonwealth Games facts to entertain you, here are just a few taken from a recent infographic on the subject from Virgin Media.
Monkeys as guardians
Most people are aware of the term ‘Men in Black’, referring to the eponymous film, but not so many people know that monkeys were used to guard the 2010 Delhi games. How one instructed these chattering and agile primates to carry out their duties is a mystery – but it happened.
Mail boats as transport
The tiny South Atlantic island of St Helena won’t have an airport until 2016. Until that time, participants in the shooting and badminton events, hailing from this remote place have to journey to the UK by the island’s mail boat, the RMS St Helena.
Foodie facts
390,000 meals will be served to athletes during the course of the games. The sportsmen and women will consume an estimated 500,000 items of fruit as well as a carbohydrate fest of 60 tonnes of potatoes.
Medal statistics
The Australians have won 2080 medals to date, 19 countries haven’t won any at all. The world’s tiniest republic, Nauru has managed to win 28 medals in weightlifting but hope to extend their range to judo, boxing and athletics. The island only has a population of 9,488 making its achievements even more impressive.
Be a man, give up smoking and become a marathon runner
Seven years ago, Steve Way was overweight, smoked 20 a day and had as much thought of taking part in the Commonwealth Games as going to the moon. Since then, he’s packed in the fags, lost weight and this year came 10th in the Commonwealth Games marathon: Go Steve!
Dogs and the opening ceremony
Over 40 endearing Scottie dogs took part in this year’s opening ceremony. The star of the show was Jock, who actually staged a sit down strike at the start of the procession and was carried around the stadium; he was the one wearing the Malaysian flag.