Terry Bywater and Lucy Shuker Announced as Flagbearers for Paris 2024 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony
In a celebrated announcement made on August 27, ParalympicsGB has designated esteemed Paralympic medalists Terry Bywater and Lucy Shuker as flagbearers for the Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Terry Bywater, a distinguished athlete with four bronze medals in men’s wheelchair basketball, is set to represent Great Britain at his seventh Paralympic Games. Meanwhile, Lucy Shuker is preparing for her fifth Games, having previously achieved noteworthy success with one silver and two bronze medals in wheelchair tennis, competing alongside the retired Jordanne Whiley.
Penny Briscoe, the Chef de Mission for ParalympicsGB in Paris 2024, expressed profound excitement regarding the selection of Bywater and Shuker, emphasizing that their appointment was a testament to the values that the Paralympic movement embodies. Briscoe stated, “Their selection—voted upon by their teammates—highlights how both athletes epitomize the Paralympic values that we as a team cherish dearly. I have had the distinct pleasure of witnessing their evolution as competitors and individuals since their first Paralympic appearances, and their unwavering dedication, commitment, and positive influence within the team fill me with immense pride.”
In her reflections, Shuker conveyed her honor at leading ParalympicsGB during the parade, remarking, “To carry this responsibility is overwhelmingly significant, an achievement I dreamt of. My journey began in Beijing 2008, and now, to reach my fifth Paralympics as a flagbearer is truly extraordinary.” She acknowledged the challenge of being in the spotlight, yet emphasized the collective effort represented by Team ParalympicsGB. “The team symbolizes unity, and our pursuit of medals will be a shared endeavor.”
Bywater, who made his Paralympic debut at the young age of 17 during the Sydney 2000 Games, expressed heartfelt sentiments regarding this milestone, stating, “It is a dream fulfilled; I find it hard to fully comprehend this honor. Bearing the Union flag is an emotional milestone for me—not merely a personal achievement, but also a tribute to the 215 athletes, our supportive staff, and my family, including those who have passed away yet cheered me on throughout my journey.”
Both athletes will proudly carry the British flag during the prestigious Opening Ceremony at Place de la Concorde on August 28. The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games are scheduled to unfold from August 28 to September 8, showcasing the remarkable talents and inspiring stories of athletes from around the world.
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