This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007

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Commonwealth athletes prepare for Melbourne

08/01/2006

More than 100 athletes who will represent Scotland at the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne in March gathered at Stirling University this weekend.

Sports Minister Patricia Ferguson wished them well as they were presented with their Scotland kit. She said:

"The hard work and dedication that all of these athletes have put in over the past months and years is about to pay off as they prepare to compete against the world's elite for some of the most sought after prizes in sport.

"The Scotland team boasts vast talent and experience across a wide range of sports and after meeting many of the athletes today I have no doubt that our team will make Scotland proud in Melbourne this March."

Paul Bush, Chef de Mission for the 2006 Scottish Commonwealth Games Team, said:

"This has been a really valuable weekend which has given athletes and officials from different sports the opportunity to meet one another and start to develop that vital team spirit required for a truly successful team.

"Everyone has also benefited from a range of education sessions including information on the Games village the media operation and doping control, as well as the all important kit collection, which is always an exciting moment for athletes selected for their first Games."

The team flies out from Glasgow Airport on February 28 for the Games which take place March 15-26.

Scotland is bidding to host the 2014 Games in Glasgow.