Scottish Catholic Observer

The programme to house to relatives of athletes and volunteers (known locally as the Clydesiders) in Glasgow during the Commonwealth Games has been so popular that demand proved far higher than anticipated, outstripping supply.

More Than Gold 2014, which is running the programme with the backing of churches, parishes and religious groups, is providing 2000 bed nights during Glasgow 2014. The Christian group says that the response has been phenomenal, as has been the demand.  A waiting list had to be created and was closed when it reached 120.

“We have done the athlete family homestay programme for about 20 years starting in Atlanta for the games there and this is the first time that we have run out of homes,” David Willson, co ordinator of tMore than Gold, said of the uptake of the programme.

Mr Willson said that the generosity of the 100 Scottish families who opened their homes was ‘absolutely overwhelming’ and he thanked them all for their kindness.  Hosting families provided accommodation, meals and some transportation.

In addition to providing accommodation for athlete families, at the request of the Scottish government, More Than Gold 2014 has also provided homes for 150 of the 15,000 volunteers from around the world.

Alex Carduff hosted a volunteer and Liz Sayers, mother of a English athlete, Goldie, said had it not been for this programme she would have had to sleep in her car. Mr Carduff said it was a most rewarding experience and recommended it his fellow Scots.

“I would do it again, I would highly recommend it to anyone else who haven’t hosted before,” he said. “If anyone is reluctant then they should know that at the end of the day the More Than Gold team is there as a backup. Should there be any complications they will sort it out.”

The PGA (Professional Golfer’s Association), the organiser of the Ryder Cup, has asked More Than Gold 2014 if they can provide homestays for volunteers working at the 2014 Ryder Cup being held at Gleneagles from September 26-28. Families in Perth and Stirling willing to open their homes for this event can contact Willson at: [email protected]