Flagbearer honour a memorable experience - Kirlew

PARIS, FRANCE -Jamaican swimmer Josh Kirlew says the honour of being Jamaica's flag bearer at the Olympics opening ceremony was a memorable experience, further cementing his pride in wearing the national colours.

Kirlew, who will make his Olympic debut on Friday in the men's 100-metre butterfly was a part of the historic procession down the Seine river on Friday to open the Games, the first time that the ceremony was not held inside a stadium.

Kirlew, who was born in England, said that the atmosphere from the camp made him feel truly welcomed into the fraternity.

"It was an experience, I'll say that much. Honestly, going out there surrounded by all the other Jamaican athletes and everything I truly felt like I was part of the team," Kirlew told The Gleaner. "All of us were there, having a laugh trying to rally each other up.

"And suddenly the planes fly over and we see the other countries go past. It was a dream come true. I couldn't have asked for a better experience."

Kirlew competed for the first time as a Jamaican athlete this year in February, as he battled to earn a spot in Paris. Born to a Jamaican mother, Kirlew said that the decision to switch allegiances was inevitable, given the constant reminders of home.

"If I had to choose one or the other, I identify as Jamaican more so than British. I have constant reminders all over the house reminding me of the motherland," Kirlew said.

On the verge of stepping into the pool facing the elites of his craft, Kirlew said that the main focus is to be mentally ready to take on the huge task before him.

- Daniel Wheeler

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