Bermuda?s chances of hosting the 2011 Island Games were hit by a body blow yesterday after the international body?s executive backed rival bidders Isle of Wight.

Although it is possible the general membership, who vote on July 8 at the AGM in Rhodes, will go against the Island Games Association recommendation, it is not looking good for the Island bid which has been backed vigorously by Sports Minister Dale Butler.

The executive ? some of whom inspected Bermuda facilities earlier this year ? based their decision on Bermuda?s high costs, both in terms of travelling here and once at the venue, the suggested August date, which clashes with school terms, and a perceived lack of public support because of Bermuda?s only relatively recent participation in the biennial event.

They did describe the bid as ?excellent? but still went with the other option.