GAMES

South African officials have promised to host a world-class Commonwealth Games at Durban in 2022, despite local officials admitting the money to fund the event is not in their budget and they have had to approach the Government for help.

Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) director of operations John Eades is to leave his position to take up a role with the Manchester United Foundation, insidethegames has been told.

Denise Lewis has replaced fellow Olympic gold medallist Dame Kelly Holmes as President of Commonwealth Games England (CGE), it has been announced.

Edmonton was today selected to host next year's Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) General Assembly, which could act as a platform for a renewed bid to host the Games themselves in 2026 following its withdrawal from the contest for 2022.

The Canadian city pulled out of the campaign in February due to the impact of the global decline in oil prices.

They claimed they hoped to bid instead for the 2026 Games.

They had last hosted the Commonwealth Games in 1978.

"This is an exciting opportunity for us to reinforce our commitment to being active partners in advancing the vision for the Commonwealth Games and to showcase the city of Edmonton and Canada," said the city's Mayor Don Iveson.

"Our city is a great host and I am confident that together with our partners - Commonwealth Games Canada, Edmonton Tourism and Edmonton International Airports - we will provide everyone with many memorable experiences and a worry-free Assembly."

More than 300 delegates are expected to attend the event.

Dates still have to be confirmed.

"We appreciate the confidence the Commonwealth Games Federation has put in us by awarding Canada and Edmonton the right to host next year's General Assembly," Rick Powers, chairman of Commonwealth Games Canada, said.

David Grevemberg, chief executive of the CGA, acknowledged that by awarding the event to Edmonton ahead of its only rival, Gibraltar, they were hoping to encourage them to bid.

"We're delighted to support the ambitions of Edmonton and to be returning to Canada - where the Commonwealth Games first began - for the 2016 CGF General Assembly as part of our continued commitment to engage with CGAs (Commonwealth Games Associations), communities and potential bid cities from across the Commonwealth," he said.

Source

Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) President Louise Martin has urged officials to boost their support for sport as it will help "engage and inspire" the next generation.