Being selected as Great Britain’s flagbearer is a shock, says Hoy
BRITISH great Sir Chris Hoy admits he is still in shock about the realisation that it will be he enjoying “a once in a lifetime opportunity” as Great Britain’s flag bearer during Friday’s opening Olympics ceremony.
In a poll by the 542 members of the British team, the four-time Olympic gold medallist received the highest number of votes to earn the highly sought-after role and though he did the same at the closing ceremony of the 2008 Games, his surprise was as clear as his obvious pride.
“I’m still in shock, it’s all sinking in,” said 36-year-old Hoy. “I’m just looking forward to Friday.
“To have the athletes vote for you it makes it even more special. This will be my first experience of an opening ceremony so for a number of reasons it will be very special.
“I’m absolutely delighted and honoured to have been voted as the flag bearer for Team GB.
“To lead out your team at a home Olympics is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity and one that that I can’t wait to experience in just a few days time.”
Hoy became the first Briton for a century to claim three golds at a solitary Games in 2008 and should he win in the team sprint and keirin at London 2012, he will successfully surpass Sir Steve Redgrave’s British record of five Olympic golds.
Andy Hunt, Team GB’s Chef de Mission said: “Team GB could not have placed the flag in better hands.”