THE Falkland Islands National Sports Council is inviting the Falkland Islands community to submit designs for a Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games Kings Baton. All nations will be submitting a baton.
The design competition is in place of a baton ‘relay’ around the world which occurred in the past. The art concept is viewed as having a much reduced environmental footprint.
Vicky Chater told Penguin News this week that the key word for the Falkland Islands is ‘family’ and Falklands artists could use that word to influence their work.
She indicated they should provide a “clear” decoration because of the size of the baton and it should also draw strongly on a Falklands theme and “our identity.”
Vicky also said the image should be “very recognisable.”
She felt it was a great opportunity for local art because it would be seen on a global stage at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games. 74 batons would be shown at the Games.
The Falklands baton will be presented locally over the week of March 27 to April 1 on social media and be taken around the islands including to Mount Pleasant and around Stanley for residents to view.
If you wish to submit a design forms can be collected from FICS, Stanley House, The Post Office, The Library and the Leisure Centre. The deadline for entries is Monday February 2, 2026. All entries will be considered by a panel of judges. For more information contact Vicky Chater on email [email protected].
Six indoor bowls athletes will represent the Falklands at the Games in July and August. The team going away will be Daphne Arthur-Almond, Sharon Barnes, Kris Thorsen, Cecil Alexander, Ian Barnes and Oliver Thompson.
A number of representatives for the National Sports Council will also attend the event.
