Back to overview

The SSE Hydro takes centre stage

28 Jul 2014
hydrofrontstage.jpg

The SSE Hydro has taken centre stage as one of the Commonwealth Games most iconic venues.

It’s become a popular image with a host of international broadcasters using it as the backdrop for the city.

The 13,000 seater venue is hosting the netball, gymnastics and boxing events and has welcomed almost 100,000 visitors through its doors since the start of the Games.

Welsh gymnasts Frankie Jones and team-mate Laura Halford made history in the arena when they took the double, winning gold and silver to the cheers of a big Welsh following that had managed to set up camp inside.

SSE Ambassador Michael Conlan will feel the Hydro roar when he competes on Friday in the boxing finals.

And it will again take centre stage on the last day of the Games where it will host the Netballs final on Sunday 3rd August.

As well as being at the heart of the sporting action, The SSE Hydro is lit up in SSE’s green and blue at night – becoming a beacon for visitors and media alike.

Wendy Barbour, SSE Director for Commonwealth Games and Sponsorship, said: “Since opening in September last year The SSE Hydro has hosted the world’s biggest stars and has received countless awards and plaudits.

“From Rod Stewart to Beyonce, it’s become one of the top entertainment venues in the world although eclipsing hosting the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games will be a tough act to beat.

“With all eyes on Glasgow for the Games it’s continuing to shine for visitors to the city from the UK and further afield and we are exceptionally proud of the venue."

Since it opened The SSE Hydro has won six awards including the Most Stylish Venue at the Scottish Style Awards and the Supreme Award present by the Glasgow Institute of Architects.

In April it was placed fourth in the Pollstar "Top 100 Worldwide Arena Venues," beating some of the World's most known venues including Madison Square Garden in New York.