The countdown is now definitely on with only 100 days to go from 29 May until the start of the 4th Commonwealth Youth Games. A real buzz is beginning to generate around the Isle of Man as one of the most prestigious sporting events ever to be hosted on the island enters the final stages of preparation and draws ever nearer. The CYG2011 Organising Committee is hard at work as the finer detail of the Games begins to take shape. Geoff Karran, Chairman and Games Director said: “Accommodation, catering, transport, ticketing and travel have all been logistically challenging issues which the CYG2011 OC has worked together to resolve. The Isle of Man Government, the Isle of Man CGA, our partners and sponsors have all worked closely with the CYG2011 OC to make these Games happen and happen on a level which I’m sure will make us all proud.” The CYG2011 Administration Office is now busy corresponding with the 69 Commonwealth nations attending the Games, assisting them with their travel plans with the help of the Games’ travel agent, Regency Travel, collating athlete and official entry numbers, allocating accommodation and also providing them with general information about the Isle of Man. Once again, the island has proved that when it comes to volunteering very few nations do it better. With over 600 volunteers now signed to help with the Games, job roles are being allocated, with most Team Liaison Officers already appointed. This group of around 100 people will be assigned to the 69 nations and will act in an ambassadorial role. They will be the first point of contact for nations, helping them with all the necessary information required to make their stay on the island a success. Victoria Karran, CYG2011 Volunteer Co-ordinator said: “I have a wonderful committee which has worked very hard in securing volunteers for the Games. A big thank you to everyone who has volunteered their time whether for a week, a day or an hour. We are now at the stage when we can start appointing people to job roles and arrange training. It is not yet too late to volunteer to help with the Games and anyone interested can either apply through our website www.cyg2011.com or contact the CYG2011 Administration Office on 01624 662011. “ A top class field of young athletes between the ages of 13 and 18 will compete in events which cover seven sports: Athletics, Badminton, Boxing, Cycling, Gymnastics, Rugby 7s and Swimming. Three days of sport will take place over Friday 9 September to Sunday 11 September. Andy Varnom, Chief Sports Co-ordinator said: “The cream of young athletic talent from 69 nations of the Commonwealth will arrive on the island with only one thing in mind – to win a gold medal. Youth sporting events provide these athletes with the opportunity of experiencing a high level of competition and provide them with a springboard to go on to senior events.” Sporting venues are ready, with the refurbishment to the Ellan Vannin Gymnastics Centre due for completion in August 2011. Hon. David Cretney MHK, Minister for Community, Culture and Leisure said: “We are delighted that the Bowl Redevelopment Scheme, which was critical to the staging of the Commonwealth Youth Games, hosting both the opening ceremony and the Rugby Sevens, is now complete. The scheme was completed both ahead of schedule and within budget. The new stadium was used recently for the Closing Ceremony of the Manx Youth Games and we look forward to welcoming the nations of the Commonwealth to celebrate the Opening Ceremony of the 2011 Commonwealth Youth Games on Thursday 8 September.” Minister Cretney added: “This is undoubtedly an opportunity to showcase our beautiful island on a world stage. With our sporting facilities, performance venues and infrastructure together with our heritage, scenery and the welcome and warmth of the Manx people we have an opportunity to show the visiting nations of the Commonwealth the unforgettable Isle of Man.” Tickets for the CYG2011 Opening Ceremony and the seven sporting events will go on sale to the public on Monday 13 June. There is an opportunity for everyone to be part of this great event with ticket prices ranging from ?6 to ?15, concessions available at some venues and the Cycling event free to spectators. Tickets can be purchased at the Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal in DOuglas and the Villa Marina Reception or via the Ticketing Hotline on 01624 600555. If you would like more information about the Commonwealth Youth Games visit www.cyg2011.com or join the Commonwealth Youth Games 2011 Facebook page and Twitter feed. ENDS