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John Twomey named as Ireland's flag bearer for Paralympic Opening Ceremony

Para-sailor John Twomey has been announced as Ireland's flag bearer for this year’s Paralym...



John Twomey named as Ireland&#...
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John Twomey named as Ireland's flag bearer for Paralympic Opening Ceremony

Para-sailor John Twomey has been announced as Ireland's flag bearer for this year’s Paralympic Games.

With just 50 days to go until the Paralympic Games, Chef de Mission, Denis Toomey, announced that the Corkman has been given the honour.

Twomey, who will be attending his 11th Paralympic Games – has been given the honour of leading the Irish team out at the Opening Ceremony on September 7th in the Maracana Stadium in the Brazilian city. He has won a gold and bronze medal as a discus thrower and won silver in table tennis.

Speaking to Newstalk after the announcement was made, Twomey spoke of his delight at the news. "I'm very proud of the fact that I've been asked to carry the flag in Rio. It's a real honour for myself and my family, and for the sailing team as well." 

Chef de Mission Denis Toomey stated: "John has had a remarkable career in Paralympic sport, spanning ten Paralympic Games – with his 11th appearance at a Games to be made this September in Rio as a member of the Irish Sailing Sonar team."

"It is as a result of this remarkable and historic career, and indeed, his dedication to Paralympic sport that I have bestowed on him the honour of carrying the Irish Flag and leading Team Ireland into the stadium for the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio."

Four years ago, Ireland won 16 medals, including eight gold medals. It was the countries best performance as a Games since Seoul in 1988.

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