Queen Kicks Off Commonwealth Games Baton Relay at Buckingham Palace

In a vibrant display of royal tradition, Queen Elizabeth II officially launched the Commonwealth Games Baton Relay at Buckingham Palace today, setting the stage for the highly anticipated Birmingham 2022 Games.

Clad in a striking orange coat and a matching hat adorned with floral accents, the Queen looked radiant as she greeted guests in the forecourt of her iconic London residence.

Accompanied by her youngest son, Prince Edward, the Queen took a moment to place her personal message inside the baton.

This baton is not just any relay symbol; it represents a journey that will span over 90,000 miles and involve 7,500 bearers across 72 nations and territories within the Commonwealth.

The relay is set to unfold over an impressive 294 days, culminating in the grand opening ceremony scheduled for July 28, 2022.

This event marks a significant milestone for the Queen, as it is her first major public engagement at Buckingham Palace since the onset of the pandemic.

Earlier this week, she returned to her Berkshire home after spending the summer at Balmoral, and today's ceremony seems to signal a return to her royal duties.

The baton itself is a marvel of modern technology.

Described as the “first true smart baton,” it features cutting-edge enhancements that will ensure the Queen's message remains secure until it is unveiled during the opening ceremony.

This innovative approach reflects a blend of tradition and technology, symbolizing the spirit of the Games.

During the ceremony, the Queen and Prince Edward had the opportunity to meet the talented design team responsible for the baton.