K. Andrews-Nahu , a weightlifter from New Zealand, will carry the country’s flag at today’s Opening Ceremony of the Summer Youth Olympic Games.
New Zealand’s Chef de Mission Barbara Kendall told the Auckland native of the honour during a special ceremony attended by 100 athletes and support staff.
Kendall stated that K. Andrews-Nahu was selected because her acts exemplify the ideals and culture of the New Zealand Team, despite the fact that she is of Ngpuhi, Ngti Porou, Samoan, and Fijian origin.
“K. Andrews-Nahu is a leader and role model at her school, in her community, and in her sport,” she gushed.
She continually amazes me with her dedication and maturity, both of which are far beyond her years. She is a role model for aspiring young Maori and Pacific Islander athletes.
Introducing K. Andrews-Nahu as the official flagbearer of New Zealand is a great honour for me.
K. Andrews-Nahu the Right Person to Represent New Zealand at the Opening Ceremony.
Weightlifting was Andrews-first K. Andrews-Nahu ‘s sport when she switched to it from crossfit at the age of 13.
The adolescent set a new record of 135 at the New Zealand National Championships last month, breaking 8 national records in the under-75 kilogramme category.
While most opening ceremonies are held in stadiums, the one for Buenos Aires 2018 will be held on Avenue de Julio 9th, the largest avenue in the world. More than a quarter of a million spectators are expected to watch the event, which will feature athletes from 206 different countries and will be interactive from every angle.
Final Words
Having been selected to carry the New Zealand flag, K. Andrews-Nahu couldn’t contain her enthusiasm.
“I feel really privileged, like an I have rockets going out in my body, I’m so excited,” she added. I’m honoured to be selected as the team’s flagbearer because we have such a talented group of athletes on our squad.
It means a lot to me to represent New Zealand at these Games, and I know my heart will be brimming with pride as we march in the Opening Ceremony.
