2023 Guernsey

The 2023 NatWest International Island Games took place in Guernsey from 8–14 July, following the postponement of the 2021 Games due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For Orkney, the Games provided an important opportunity to compete against other island communities and build momentum ahead of hosting the event in 2025. Orkney finished with two medals: one silver and one bronze, thanks to outstanding performances in archery and athletics. Stewart Stanger’s silver medal and Aly Kemp’s bronze were the highlights of the campaign, while Orkney’s competitors gained valuable experience across a range of individual and team sports.

Archery — Stewart Stanger’s silver medal

Stewart Stanger delivered one of Orkney’s standout performances, winning silver in the men’s Single WA 1440 Compound event with a score of 1,330. He finished second behind Jóannes Poulsen of the Faroe Islands. His achievement was a significant success for Orkney archery and ensured that the island secured a medal outside athletics. Stanger’s performance highlighted the precision, consistency and dedication required to compete at international level.

Athletics — Aly Kemp’s bronze medal

Aly Kemp won bronze in the women’s 10,000m in 37:26.13, securing Orkney’s second medal of the Games. Her third-place finish in a demanding endurance event was a notable achievement against a strong international field. Kemp’s performance continued Orkney’s proud tradition of distance-running success and gave the athletics contingent a memorable podium finish.

Beyond the medal table

Orkney’s delegation also competed in disciplines including badminton, cycling, golf, sailing, shooting, swimming and triathlon. Although only archery and athletics yielded medals, the wider team represented the islands across a varied sporting programme, gaining experience against competitors from across the international island community. Participation in the Games was valuable not only for the results achieved but also for developing confidence, maintaining sporting connections and preparing for future competitions. With Orkney due to host the next edition in 2025, Guernsey provided an important opportunity to learn from another island’s organisation and sporting infrastructure.