The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has announced sprint sensation Akani Simbine as one of the country’s flag bearers for the Olympic Games Paris 2024, marking a significant moment in his illustrious career. Gymnast Caitlin Rooskrantz will join Simbine as the co-flag bearer, underlining South Africa’s commitment to gender equality in sports.
Simbine’s selection comes on the heels of impressive performances in recent athletic competitions, including a stellar showing at the Diamond League meets. His career highlights include being the first South African to make the 100m finals at an Olympic Games, breaking the African 100m record with a time of 9.84 seconds, and clinching gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
READ MORE: Your Ultimate Guide to the 2024 Paris Olympics
“Being chosen as a flag bearer is a dream come true,” said Simbine. “It’s not just a personal golden moment, but a chance to represent the spirit of Team South Africa. This honour will fuel my determination to create more award-winning moments on the track in Paris.”
Leading the Nation with Pride
The role of the flag bearer carries immense significance, symbolising the values of the Olympic spirit and national pride. It is a responsibility that goes beyond athletic prowess, representing the hopes and aspirations of an entire nation. Simbine’s journey from the tracks of Tshwane to the global stage is a testament to his dedication and hard work.
As an official partner to the Olympic & Paralympic Games, Corona Cero draws parallels between Olympic triumphs and the power of meaningful, everyday experiences. From an athlete’s podium finish to buying a new home, the campaign celebrates the emotion and significance of life’s golden moments.
Inspiring Future Generations
As Simbine prepares to carry the flag in Paris, he stands as a beacon of inspiration for South Africans. His journey from the tracks of Tshwane to Olympic flag bearer exemplifies the power of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence.
“This opportunity to lead Team South Africa into the Olympic Stadium is my golden moment,” Simbine added. “But I hope it inspires every South African to recognise and celebrate their golden moments, big or small. We’re all capable of achieving greatness in our ways.”
A Ceremony Outside a Stadium
For the first time in the history of the Olympic Summer Games, the Opening Ceremony will not take place in a stadium. Paris 2024 is breaking new ground by bringing sports into the city, and the same will be true of the Opening Ceremony, set to be held in the heart of the city along its main artery: the Seine. This historic event will air tonight at 8 PM local time in Paris.
READ MORE: Road to Paris: The South African Athletes to Watch
A Ceremony on the River
Taking on a new guise, the parade of athletes will be held on the Seine with boats for each national delegation. These boats will be equipped with cameras to allow television and online viewers to see the athletes up close. Winding their way from east to west, the 10,500 athletes will cross through the centre of Paris, the overall playing field for the Games, on which these competitors will display their sporting prowess over the next 16 days. The parade will come to the end of its 6-kilometre route in front of the Trocadéro, where the remaining elements of Olympic protocol and final shows will take place.
How Do I Find Out More About Our Athletes?
If you’re a fan of the Olympics, you’ll love our brand new July/August issue of Men’s Health. In this issue you’ll find out everything you need to know about champion mindsets and get to know more about South African legend and world-class sprinter, Akani Simbine. Plus, it’s stacked with workouts, recipes and so much more. Grab a copy, sit back, relax and enjoy an unforgettable few weeks watching our athletes on the world stage.
The Olympic Games Paris 2024 takes place from 26 July – 11 August 2024 and the Opening Ceremony is tonight at 19:30 CEST on Supersport, Dstv Stream and SABC Sports.
