5,000 tickets for the Commonwealth Games will be used to say ‘thank you’ to individuals and groups involved in Legacy 2014 programmes, Commonwealth Games and Sport Minister Shona Robison announced today.

The Scottish Government’s Legacy Ticket scheme recognises the many achievements and contributions of people across Scotland who are creating a lasting Games legacy.

With 94% of Games public tickets now sold, 5,000 tickets will reward individuals involved in Legacy 2014 activity and who otherwise might not get the opportunity to attend the Games.

Tickets will be allocated by Legacy 2014 partners including: sportscotland, Education Scotland and Big Lottery Fund. They will identify those to be Legacy Ticket beneficiaries, such as:
· Young People – including Team Scotland supporters, and those involved in sport at school, community or club level
· Those who make sport happen, including volunteers
· Those who make a contribution to their communities, through volunteering or other means
· People without the opportunity to experience the Games, and those from disadvantaged groups or those with a disability.

Ms Robison today (January 29) visited Perth with Meggan Dawson-Farrell, Team Scotland para-athlete, along with young sport volunteers at the Perth High School Community Sport Hub as they coached primary school pupils from nearby Oakbank Primary. (Photos are available on request).

Ms Robison said:
“We are determined that there should be a lasting Legacy from the Games.

“This gift of 5,000 Legacy Tickets will recognise the valuable contribution made by people to deliver a meaningful legacy. We’re making sure we can say a big ‘thank you’ whilst offering beneficiaries the chance to see the best in sporting action, or experience the thrill of the opening or closing ceremony, and deliver an “I was there when” moment. My hope is that the memories created by seeing the Games will last a lifetime.”

Meggan Dawson-Farrell, Team Scotland para-athlete said,
“This summer will see some of the best athletes that Scotland has to offer, both able-bodied and disabled, representing their country united – cementing the bridge to equal opportunity. I wish this for all young people, I believe the Games can help bring this about.”

Louise Martin CBE, Chair of sportscotland, said,
“I am delighted that thousands of people will benefit from Legacy Tickets as it will give all of the extremely deserving recipients the chance to be part of the Commonwealth Games.

“Glasgow 2014 is a wonderful opportunity for everyone involved in Scottish sport, with 11 days of world-class competition taking place on home soil.

“sportscotland is committed to helping deliver a lasting sporting legacy from the Games, and the performances of our athletes will play a huge part in helping to motivate and inspire the next generation of sporting stars.”