Following a successful King’s Baton Relay last weekend, national sports federations, athletes and officials gathered to celebrate the baton’s journey across Vanuatu before it continues its 500-day journey to Glasgow in July for the Commonwealth Games.

The closing ceremony was hosted by the British High Commissioner to Vanuatu, Her Excellency Nicolette Brent, who welcomed representatives from sporting federations and athletes who took part in carrying the baton across the country.

H.E. Brent explained that each country contributes a word to the baton as part of a secret message from His Majesty King Charles III to Commonwealth athletes. The full message will only be revealed when all batons arrive in Glasgow at the start of the Games.

“The words were a phrase and that forms part of a secret message from His Majesty King Charles III to the Commonwealth and to the athletes who are competing. The text of the message will be revealed at the start of the Games when all the batons make their way to Glasgow,” she said.

She added that Vanuatu’s chosen word on the baton was Pride, describing it as a fitting reflection of the nation.

“I think it is quite fitting that Vanuatu’s word on the baton is ‘Pride’. We have witnessed time and time again how Vanuatu demonstrates pride — pride in your culture, pride in your land, pride in your people, and pride in the athletes that make up Team Vanuatu.”

H.E. Brent also highlighted that the baton’s journey promotes environmental sustainability. This year, organisers encouraged participating countries to host clean-up activities to tackle plastic pollution, reflecting His Majesty’s long-standing commitment to environmental protection.

The King’s Baton Relay will continue its global journey before reaching Glasgow, carrying with it Vanuatu’s message of pride to the Commonwealth.