20th edition of Commonwealth Games begin at Celtic Park in Glasgow, Scotland

July 25, 2014

The 2014 Commonwealth Games kicked off with a spectacular opening ceremony that witnessed some enchanting performances by singers Rod Stewart, Susan Boyle and violinist Nicola Benedetti at the Celtic Park, Glasgow (Scotland). The British Queen Elizabeth II declared the Games open after the enthralling opening ceremony that was participated by some 2,000 cast members and 4,500 athletes from 71 countries and territories. Albeit there are 53 members of the Commonwealth of Nations, 71 teams participate in the Commonwealth Games, as a number of dependent territories compete under their own flag.
The players’ parade was led by India, by the virtue of being the previous hosts. London Olympics silver medallist Vijay Kumar led the Indian contingent as he proudly carried the tri-colour.
The Commonwealth Games (known as the British Empire Games from 1930–1950, the British Empire and Commonwealth Games from 1954–1966, and British Commonwealth Games from 1970–1974) is an international, multi-sport event involving athletes from the Commonwealth of Nations. Only six teams have attended every Commonwealth Games: Australia, Canada, England, New Zealand, Scotland, and Wales.