Pandelela raring to lead Malaysian contingent

by Matthew T. Umpang, reporters@theborneopost.com. Posted on July 24, 2012, Tuesday

Pandelela Rinong

KUCHING: Malaysian diving queen Pandelela Rinong revealed that it was a great honour to be given the role to carry the Jalur Gemilang during the opening of the London Olympics this coming Friday.

She would go down in history as the first Malaysian woman and Sarawakian and to be flag bearer at the Olympics. The opening ceremony will showcase a parade of 204 competing nations.

“I dedicate the honour to all Sarawakians who have been supporting me from the start. It was beyond my wildest dream. It will be a glorious moment to lead the Malaysian contingent at the March-pass,” Pandelela told The Borneo Post in an exclusive interview prior to her flight to London yesterday.

“Thank you for your prayers. I am very grateful for your support in my quest to bring honours and glory to Malaysia and Sarawak. I shall do all my best and all I can at the Olympics,” added Pandelela who has also been appointed as leader of the women’s diving squad.

Pandelela remarked that she have always strived for the best as for her, Malaysia will always come first before anything else.

“I have prepared myself mentally to lead the national team at the March-pass. It will be an amazing experience and also a privilege,” informed Pandelela.

Other flag-bearers already announced include Maria Sharapova and Roger Federer for the Russians and Swiss respectively while South Africa has chosen track star Caster Semenya as their flag-bearer.

Pandelela has fellow divers and Sarawakians Bryan Nickson Lomas and Traisy Vivien Tukiet for company in London.

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