Mariel Zagunis Chosen to Lead US Into Olympics by Carrying Country Flag
Mariel Zagunis has been given a distinctive honor at tomorrow's opening ceremony in London. She will be carrying the United States' flag and leading the 529-member U.S. Olympic team into the ceremony.
"I'm extremely humbled by this incredible privilege," Zagunis told USA Today. "As an athlete, I can't imagine a higher honor than to lead Team USA into the Olympic games, which are the pinnacle of sport and a platform for world peace. I am tremendously proud to represent my sport, our team, and most importantly, the United States of America."
The Olympic fencer has a rich history with the Games. In 2004, she was the first U.S. fencer to win gold at the Olympics. It was the first win for the U.S. fencing team in over 100 years. Zagunis then took gold in 2008 and at individual tournaments in 2009 and 2010.
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The U.S. team voted for Zagunis to lead them into victory at the London games, an honor that the Olympic Committee CEO Scott Blackmun definitely approved of.
"It's especially fitting in the year of the 40th anniversary of Title IX, when Team USA for the first time in history has more women than men, that Mariel receive the extraordinary honor that is carrying our nation's flag into this celebration of humanity,"
Zagunis has already arrived in London and is busy keeping her fans updated to her adventures in the city.
"Arrived in London today for my third Olympic Games! The journey so far has been incredible and I know there is still SO much more to come in the next couple of weeks. I'd like to take a moment to recognize and say thank you to my parents, coach, family, friends, and teammates who have supported me throughout everything," she posted on Facebook.
The Olympic opening ceremony will be broadcast in the United States tomorrow.
