Luke Greenbank knows only Commonwealth gold will outdo the honour of being selected as Team England’s baton bearer at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. The 28-year-old will carry his country’s baton at Thursday’s opening ceremony alongside flagbearer Sian Honnor.
Third Games, renewed confidence
Greenbank heads to his third Games and after a disappointing showing at Birmingham 2022, where the Olympic bronze medallist missed out on individual honours, the Cockermouth swimmer is confident that his best is yet to come as one of the most experienced members of the swimming squad.
He said: “At Gold Coast, I was the newcomer and didn't really know what to expect. In Birmingham, I probably put too much pressure on myself and didn't get the performances I wanted. “This time, I feel really confident coming into the Games. I don't put as much pressure on myself anymore and I'm a more experienced athlete. I'll be a bit calmer and hopefully that leads to some good results.”
Individual medal aim
Greenbank won 4x100m medley silver on the Gold Coast before upgrading to gold in Birmingham but before Greenbank takes to the pool, he will represent his country at the opening ceremony in the new baton-bearer role. It is particularly poignant for Greenbank, having been given the nod by his fellow athletes.
He added: “To be nominated as flagbearer is really exciting. It's not something swimmers usually get to experience because we're competing from day one, but because my events are a little later in the programme, I'll be able to attend. It'll be a great experience and I'm really proud to represent the team.”
Family support in Glasgow
With the Games taking place in Glasgow, the Cumbrian’s friends and family have a shorter journey than most other English supporters and he is relishing the extra support in his bid for individual glory. “It's probably closer for me here than Birmingham [2022] was, which is funny,” he said. “It'll be great to have friends and family in the crowd. My mum and dad are coming up, as is my fiancée, Anna. I'm really excited and hopefully I can put on a good show for them.”
