AXA Wealth will be shouting ‘go for gold Gemma’ during the 2014 Commonwealth Games, which start this evening.

The Friendly Games in Glasgow games will feature 17 sporting events with 261 medals up for grabs.

And colleagues at AXA Wealth’s head office in Basingstoke will be rooting for Gemma Kermode, who is a settlements administrator for AXA Wealth International, on the Isle of Man.

Gemma is part of the Isle of Man Women’s Shooting team, which will be entering the Women’s Air Rifle and Women’s 3P – three positions, match comprises 20 shots kneeling, 20 shots Prone and 20 shots standing – events at this year’s Games.

She is competing in her second Games. She was previously selected for the 2010 Commonwealth Games for both the Women’s Prone and Women’s Air Rifle teams.

Gemma said: “My father introduced me to shooting so I owe my success to him.

“To compete in the 2014 Commonwealth Games and represent the Isle of Man is such a great honour, and I am extremely excited.

“I’m looking forward to the whole experience and the chance to compete against some of the best shooters in the world.

“There will be strong competition this year from Scotland, Malaysia and Singapore, so I am extremely grateful for the support that AXA Wealth International has provided me.

“Being granted greater work flexibility allowed me to keep training right up until the event.”

Mike Foy, managing director, AXA Wealth International, sends his best wishes.

He said: “With over 40 of the 71 competing nations expected to send a team to Glasgow to compete in the shooting events, we are delighted and enthused to be supporting Gemma as she represents the Isle of Man at such a high level.

“On behalf of myself and everyone at AXA Wealth International we wish her the best of luck and have every confidence that she will do the Isle of Man proud. Go for gold Gemma!”