Basseterre, St. Kitts – March 11, 2025 – The St. Kitts and Nevis Commonwealth Games Association (SKNCGA) joins the Commonwealth Sport to announce that the twin-island federation will play a significant role in the historic Commonwealth Sport King’s Baton Relay for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. This groundbreaking initiative was officially launched on Commonwealth Day, March 10, 2025, at Buckingham Palace by His Majesty the King, Patron of Commonwealth Sport.
During the ceremony, His Majesty placed a Message to the Commonwealth into the first Baton and pass it to the first Batonbearer, legendary Olympian Sir Chris Hoy, marking the beginning of an inspiring journey with less than 500 days to go until the Opening Ceremony of Glasgow 2026.
For the first time in Commonwealth Games history, each of the 74 participating nations and territories will receive their own uniquely crafted Baton, proudly designed and produced in Glasgow. In a departure from previous museum-style designs, the 2026 Batons offer an innovative opportunity for customization, allowing each Commonwealth Games Association (CGA) to decorate their Batons to reflect their national identity, cultural heritage, and artistic vision. These Batons can be painted, carved, or otherwise artistically enhanced by athletes, local artists, or school communities, ensuring a deeply personal and meaningful representation of each nation.
The Caribbean has been selected as the first region to welcome The King’s Baton Relay, with the relay officially commencing in Trinidad and Tobago today, March 11, 2025. The Relay will then travel throughout the Caribbean, arriving in St. Kitts and Nevis from Monday, March 17, to Saturday, March 22, 2025.
King’s Baton Relay Caribbean Route Schedule:
• Trinidad & Tobago: March 11 – March 16
• St. Kitts & Nevis: March 17 – March 22
• St. Lucia: March 23 – March 28
• Barbados: March 29 – April 3
• Grenada: April 4 – April 9
• Dominica: April 10 – April 15
• Antigua & Barbuda: April 22 – April 27
• Montserrat: May 4 – May 9
• Anguilla: May 10 – May 15
• British Virgin Islands: May 16 – May 21
• Jamaica: May 22 – May 27
• Cayman Islands: May 28 – June 2
• Turks & Caicos: June 3 – June 8
• St. Vincent & The Grenadines: June 9 – June 14 (culmination of the Caribbean leg)
Following its Caribbean journey, the King’s Baton Relay will continue its global voyage, visiting Africa, Asia, Oceania, the Americas, and Europe before arriving in Scotland for the grand Opening Ceremony of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The St. Kitts & Nevis Baton: A Unique National Tribute
In a demonstration of national pride and creativity, the St. Kitts and Nevis CGA has commissioned renowned local artist Dennis Richards, CSM, to design and craft the Federation’s official Baton. This collaboration seeks to capture the essence of St. Kitts and Nevis’ rich history, vibrant culture, and sporting excellence, ensuring a Baton that is not only visually striking but deeply symbolic of the nation's identity and aspirations.
Upcoming Announcements
At 9am on Monday, 17th March 12, 2025, The St. Kitts & Nevis CGA will hold the official welcoming ceremony under the patronage of the Her Excellency Dame Marcella Liburd GCMG, JP to present the official Baton design. During the ceremony the Vincent Benjamin, and Cedric Maynard will be presented with Commonwealth Awards. On Friday 21st March 2025, The St. Kitts and Nevis CGA will partner with the Caribbean Youth Environment Project for a beach clean-up at Friar’s Bay. On Wednesday 19th March, 2025 a traditional games evening will be held in Nevis featuring youth athletes from across the island.
About the St. Kitts and Nevis Commonwealth Games Association (SKNOC)
The St. Kitts and Nevis Commonwealth Games Association is committed to promoting the values of the Commonwealth Games movement through sport, cultural exchange, and youth development. By participating in the King’s Baton Relay, SKNOC aims to inspire the next generation of athletes while showcasing the nation’s enduring commitment to excellence on the global stage.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Dennis Kight
President
St. Kitts and Nevis Commonwealth Games Association
Email: secretariat@sknoc.org
Phone: 1 869 465 6601
Gavin Belle
Email: gavinbelle@gmail.com
Phone: 1 869 662 2645
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