This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Team will do Scotland proud - FM
05/07/2002
First Minister Jack McConnell today wished Scotland's Commonwealth Games team good luck as they prepare to go for gold in Manchester.
Mr McConnell hosted a 'send-off' reception for the Scottish team at Stirling Castle this evening and the Scottish team's official parade and leisure uniforms were also launched at the event.
The picture shows (left to right) decathlon athlete Jamie Quarry, judo player Karen Cusack, First Minister Jack McConnell, table tennis player Claire Bentley and Donald McIntosh from the shooting team.
Mr McConnell said:
"Scotland has a proud sporting tradition and I am sure our team will not let us down in Manchester. Each and every one of these dedicated athletes will give 100 per cent as they strive for success - for themselves and their country.
"For many athletes, the Commonwealth Games will be the realisation of a dream and the culmination of years of determination, sacrifice and hard work. As in the past, I am sure that our team will be wonderful ambassadors - both for Scotland and for sport in general.
"By raising the profile of sport and showing just what Scotland can achieve on a world stage, these athletes will also provide inspiration for our sporting stars of tomorrow.
"The Commonwealth Games are a great chance for Scottish athletes to represent their country at international level and I hope this will be a memorable and successful experience for the entire team. On behalf of everyone in Scotland I want to wish our team the very best of luck and I look forward to seeing the athletes in action when I visit Manchester later this month."
Scotland has twice hosted the Commonwealth Games - in 1970 and 1986. Scotland has competed in every games since their inception in 1930, when they were known as the Empire Games. At the last Commonwealth Games, in Kuala Lumpar in 1998, Scotland won 12 medals - three gold, two silver and seven bronze.
The XVII Commonwealth Games take place in Manchester from July 25 - August 4 and Scotland is sending a 292-strong team (including athletes and support staff).