Tonga hosts Commonwealth Games Baton [1]
Wednesday, February 23, 2022 - 13:29
Tonga hosted the Commonwealth Games Queens Baton Relay from February 18 to 21 before it departed for Vanuatu on Feb.22.
Tonga was the 36th member country to host the baton with the Prime Minister Hon. Siaosi Sovaleni receiving it officially on February 21.
The High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to Tonga, HE Lucy Joyce and Tonga Association of Sports and National Olympic (TASANOC), Secretary General, Takitoa Taumoepeau, were present.
“Today is a historical day. To actually have this symbol of not just sportsmanship but working together in cooperation with the Commonwealth countries, especially during this very trying and difficult time in Tonga shows a symbol of hope, a symbol of cooperation, a symbol of partnership,” said the Prime Minister.
The traditional baton relay was not held due to the national COVID-19 lockdown. TASANOC and the British High Commission opted to have the baton featured in photo shoots.
The baton is travelling to 72 Commonwealth territories and nations and will end up at the opening ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealths Games on July 28.
The 2022 Commonwealth Games will be held in Birmingham, England from July 28 to August 8.