The Isle of Man Commonwealth Games Association has re-signed Skanco Business Systems as a sponsor for Gold Coast 2018 ©IOMCGA

The Isle of Man Commonwealth Games Association (IOMCGA) has re-signed Skanco Business Systems as a sponsor for Gold Coast 2018. 

The IT Company in the the Isle of Man's capital Douglas has renewed its sponsorship as a "Team Champion", following the success of the programme at Glasgow 2014.

The initiative, which raises vital funds to enable athletes to travel to the Games, gives local businesses the opportunity to partner with the IOMCGA.

As Team Champions in 2014, Skanco opened up the opportunity to all of its members of staff to get involved with the different teams and athletes heading to Scotland.

Coaching sessions were arranged where Skanco staff enjoyed boxing and shooting with the teams and the firm's budding triathletes enjoyed a special exclusive coaching session. 

The new deal was announced at an event where Skanco’s business development manager Dee McLoughlin met runner Keith Gerrard, 22nd in the 10,000 metres at Glasgow 2014.

"Getting behind local sport is something Skanco has felt very passionate about over the 30 years we have been in business," said McLoughlin.

"Whether it’s our own staff who are part of a local team, or young budding athletes who approach us for help, it matches our company ethos of constant learning, training and development.  

"When asked again to be Team Champions for the 2018 Games Skanco jumped at the chance - what an honour to be involved at this level of sport."

Cyclist Peter Kennaugh, left, won the Isle of Man's only medal at Glasgow 2014, a silver in the men's points race ©Getty Images
Cyclist Peter Kennaugh, left, won the Isle of Man's only medal at Glasgow 2014, a silver in the men's points race ©Getty Images

The Isle of Man won one medal at Glasgow 2014, a silver for track cyclist Peter Kennaugh in the points race.

Their best performance at the Commonwealth Games was the last time the event was held in Australia, at Melbourne 2006. 

Mark Cavendish won the gold medal in the men's scratch cycling race and shooters Trevor Boyles and Dave Walton a bronze in the men's trap pairs.

Since making their Commonwealth Games debut at Cardiff 1958, the Isle of Man have won a total of 11 medals, three of them gold. 

"Having previously competed in the Commonwealth Games I can attest to what a wonderful experience it is; being there in 2014 really was one of my sporting career highlights," said Gerrard.

"All funding, whether that be for individual athletes, specific sports or for the CGA, is so vital and without the support of the 'Team Champions' we wouldn’t be able to represent the Island internationally."