Age is just a number

Junior Reporters - Robyn Surcombe & Harry Snell

24 islands, 14 sports, and an almost 72-year age gap between the oldest and youngest competitors, the Games are a brilliant hallmark of inclusion and diversity.

Demonstrating that age is just a number when it comes to sport, Guernsey 2023 bought together 84-year-old bowler Paul T Richardson and 13 year old swimmer Giuseppe Borg at Saturday’s opening ceremony.

Gozitan Giuseppe has been swimming competitively for just two years, and his career is off to a storming start.

“This is my first-time representing Gozo; I am very happy, and this year is Gozo’s first time to compete in these games,” said Giuseppe.

“One day I would like to go to the Olympics and break records”.

Last year he competed internationally in Serbia in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m freestyle events where he gained personal bests. He also recently completed the 6.1km open water swim from Malta to Gozo. It’s clear that Guiseppe has a very promising future ahead.

On the other end of the spectrum, Paul has been bowling for 50 years. Hailing from just across the water, Paul said: “My island is Alderney, and I’m very proud of it”.

His greatest achievements include winning cups across the UK and against Guernsey. Paul last competed in the Island Games in Shetland 2005, 18 years ago.

Comparing his previous experience in the Island Games to Guernsey 2023, Paul said these Games feel much bigger: “They put me as a flag bearer, and I was very proud to do that. Walking down the middle of the road with all the crowds; it was astounding. We’ve got a lovely community here”.

When asked what advice they would give to younger athletes, Paul said: “if it seems hard, carry on with it”, while Giuseppe encouraged: “chase your dreams and believe in yourself”.