Glasgow, July 16 2014
Scotland and people of Glasgow formally welcomed the Trinidad and Tobago contingent to the Commonwealth Games Village in a bright and energetic ceremony this morning.
TTOC Secretary General Annette Knott, Assistant Secretary General Diane Henderson and Chef de Mission Ian Hypolite led the colourful group of Trinidad and Tobago athletes from their residence halls to the ceremonial venue in the International Zone. The procession drew admiring looks from the gathered groups of workers, security officials and other athletes.
An energetic music and dance program followed, presented by the National Youth Theater of Scotland. The open-air theatrical performance dramatised the aspirations of athletes on their journey to the Commonwealth Games.
Glasgow 2014 has abandoned the practice of Mayors of the Games Village in favour of a policy of rotating chieftains, more in line with Scottish cultural tradition. Current Chieftain Rona Simpson, Scotland's most-capped female hockey player, urged the athletes to enjoy the total Games experience.
Trinidad and Tobago Chef de Mission Ian Hypolite than exchanged gifts with Chieftain Simpson and Pat Reid, Provost of the City of Falkirk. Falkirk has adopted Trinidad and Tobago as its special 'Country' for Commonwealth Games 2014.
One hundred and ten Trinidad and Tobago athletes are already at the Games Village. A further Twenty-two are expected tonight.