The Glasgow-born Jamieson, who won Olympic silver in the 200 metres breaststroke at London 2012, helped to mark the landmark moment along with official Games mascot Clyde and members of Glasgow 2014, including chairman Lord Smith.

The countdown clock, supplied and powered by official Glasgow 2014 timekeeper Longines, will be situated above the destination board at the station, where it will be seen by thousands of commuters and visitors in the lead-up to the Games which are due get underway at Celtic Park on July 23.

"The switching on of the Glasgow 2014 official countdown clock is a reminder that time is ticking towards the Opening Ceremony on 23 July," said Leader of Glasgow City Council, Councillor Gordon Matheson.

"The excitement has been building for some time now for what will be the greatest Commonwealth Games ever, and anticipation will soon reach fever pitch as we welcome the world to Glasgow.

"Like so many other people, I can't wait for the Games to start."

The official Glasgow 2014 countdown clock is on display for commuters at Glasgow Central Train Station ©Glasgow 2014



Swiss company Longines has been producing time pieces for more than 130 years and has a long tradition of involvement in official sports timekeeping, most notably with equestrian sports, gymnastics, archery and alpine skiing as well as being the official timekeeper at the French Open in Roland Garros.

"Longines is very proud to be the official timekeeper and official watch of Glasgow 2014," said the firm's vice-PresidentCharles Villoz.

"Together with Glasgow 2014, we share common values such as tradition and performance.

"We are happy to bring our timekeeping expertise to the largest multi-sport event ever to be held in Scotland.

"We are looking forward to the thrilling and emotional action-packed moments that we are sure to experience this summer."

Michael Jamieson and Clyde encourage Hillhead Primary School pupil to Sport their Trainers ©Glasgow 2014



Jamieson, who will be hoping to be one of the big stars at the Tollcross International Swimming Centre this summer, was in the city as part of the Sport your Trainers campaign which helped to mark celebrations recognising today as Commonwealth Day.

Prior to heading to Glasgow Central Train Station, Jamieson and mascot Clyde started the day by visiting Glasgow's Hillhead Primary School, to encourage youngsters to wear their trainers and show support for the Games.

"It has been great to be here in Glasgow and celebrate Commonwealth Day, Sport Your Trainers and the switch on of the Glasgow 2014 clock," said 25-year-old Jamieson.

"It just brings home to me how fast the clock is ticking to July.

"Glasgow 2014 is going to be one of the highlights of my career and I'm delighted to be playing a part in the run up to the Games in my home town as an ambassador.

"As well as being an athlete the great thing for me as a sports fan is being able to attend other events and I can't wait to get to see as much as I can at Glasgow 2014."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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