Emblem unveiled for 2018 Commonwealth Games

SYDNEY (AFP) –

The official launch ceremony for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games takes place, on April 4, 2013. Commonwealth Games Minister Jann Stuckey said the logo captured the essence of the tourist Gold Coast strip, 90 kilometres (55 miles) south of Brisbane, and what the event was all about.

The logo and a countdown clock for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games were unveiled at an official launch ceremony marking five years to the opening.

Commonwealth Games Minister Jann Stuckey said the logo, or emblem, captured the essence of the tourist Gold Coast strip, 90 kilometres (55 miles) south of Brisbane, and what the event was all about.

“The emblem has been inspired by the Gold Coast’s stunning beach side location, its iconic skyline, and the colours are representative of the coast, the hinterland and the celebratory atmosphere which is synonymous with the region,” Stuckey said in a statement.

“Centred upon fluid representations of a gymnast, a hurdler and a swimmer, the emblem reflects the Games’ deep heritage and humanity.”

The logo shows beams of orange, yellow, green and blue radiating outwards, with the coloured silhouettes of the three sportsmen cleverly merging in the middle.

It received praise from Commonwealth Games Federation president Tunku Imran.

“I feel it captures perfectly the warmth, the energy, the fun and the vibrancy of the Gold Coast and Queensland and represents everything the Commonwealth is looking forward to in 2018,” the Malaysian said.

Also unveiled was a four-metre tall (13 feet) countdown clock shaped as a surfboard at Surfers Paradise, the main centre of the Gold Coast.

The opening ceremony for the Gold Coast Games is on April 4, 2018. The 2014 Games will be held in Glasgow.