It is hoped that the 46-year-old, originally born in Port of Spain in Trindiad and Tobago, will use knowledge gained in an international career that lasted more than 10 years to represent the interests of the athletes during Edmonton's campaign to host the Commonwealth Games for the first time since 1978.

Gilbert was a member of the Canadian team, alongside Donovan Bailey, that won the Olympic gold medal in the 4x100 metres relay at Atlanta 1996.

He was also part of the team that won the 4x100m relay gold medals at the 1995 and 1997 World Championships in Gothenburg and Athens respectively.

Gilbert was also an important member of the Canadian team that won the 4x100m relay gold medal the last occasion Canada hosted the Commonwealth Games, at Victoria in 1994.

"I am thrilled to be on-board and I look forward to helping the [Bid] Committee bring the Games to the wonderful city of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada," said Gilbert.

"The team has a great vision and as a former athlete I have no doubt that our plans will benefit all Commonwealth athletes for generations to come."

Glenroy Gilbert (far right) celebrates Canada's Olympic gold medal in the 4x100 metres relay at Atlanta 1996 ©Getty Images

Since retiring from competition after Sydney 2000, Gilbert has coached the Canadian 4x100m relay team, worked for CBC radio in Ottawa, Canada and is currently serving on the Canadian Paralympic Committee as senior coordinator of Games, Preparation, Performance and Enhancements. 

"Our vision for the Games is about progress and creating opportunities for all 71 Commonwealth Games Associations to achieve sporting excellence," said Reg Milley, chairman of Edmonton 2022.

"When you want to achieve excellence, you need to work with champions and that is exactly what Glenroy brings.

"We are very excited to have him on our team."

Gilbert's appointment is further sign of Edmonton's momentum, which is in stark contrast to its only rivals, Durban, who have so far not made any significant appointments.

The Commonwealth Games Federation is due to choose the winning city at its General Assembly in Auckland on September 2, 2015. 

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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