A University of Stirling student launched the Commonwealth Games with His Majesty King Charles II during the King’s Baton Rely at Buckingham Palace.
On Monday, March 10, Student Gabriella Wood was one of the first baton-bearers alongside Sir Chris Hoy, wheelchair racer Sammi Kinghorn MBE, and Commonwealth Society volunteer Keiran Healy.
Gabriella was representing her home nation Trinidad and Tobago, the first destination for the relay.
The baton will travel around each Commonwealth country before returning to the U.K. ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
The relay marked 500 days until the Games begin. After starting the relay, Gabriella hopes to continue her sporting success and compete in the Games.
The 27-year-old was the first woman – and second person ever – to represent Trinidad and Tobago in judo at the Olympics when she competed at the 2020/2021 Tokyo Summer Games.
Whilst studying and training, Gabriella coaches at the Judo Club Esprit in Alloa.
Before her return to Scotland, Gabrielle will be competing in 78+kg division for her third consecutive win at the British University Championship in Birmingham.
Discussing the relay, Gabriella Wood said: “It was an honour to walk the first official leg of the baton relay receiving the baton on behalf of my home nation Trinidad and Tobago to commence 500 days to the next Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Being part of this historic moment fills me with immense pride – not just as an athlete, but as a representative of my university, my sport, and my country. Carrying the baton symbolises unity, perseverance, and the shared spirit of competition that the Commonwealth Games embody, and I am truly grateful to have been a part of this journey.”
David Bond, Head of Performance Sport at the University of Stirling, said: “We are filled with an immense sense of pride at seeing one of our athletes and brightest talents play such an important role at the prestigious King’s Baton Relay and really shine on the world stage.
“Gabriella’s journey to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games started some time ago and I know there has been a great deal of hard work and dedication that has gone into her preparations. Having the privilege of being one of the first baton-bearers is another fantastic step on her road to Glasgow 2026.
“Gabriella is an exceptional role model for young athletes, her fellow students, the entire University of Stirling community and her home nation of Trinidad and Tobago, demonstrating just what can be achieved through a University of Stirling sports scholarship.”
The King’s Baton Relay will conclude July 23, 2026, at the Glasgow Commonwealth Opening Ceremony.
Featured image credit: Commonwealth sport
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