Chuck Aoki and Melissa Stockwell to Represent Team USA as Flag Bearers During Tokyo Paralympics

Photo: Harry How/Getty (2)

In the past, one individual has served as the flag bearer during the opening ceremony, but it was changed to two this year after the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced in March 2020 that one male and one female would represent each nation in “promotion of gender parity,” according to a release. The IPC also required that at least one male and one female athlete be included in each of the 162 national delegations that will compete in Tokyo.

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Stockwell said in a release that she is honored and humbled after being chosen as a flag bearer, noting that she’s not only representing her country and sport but her Paralympic family.

“The Paralympics are a showcase of what we can overcome with the power of the human body and the human spirit, and I’m just so proud of where my story has brought me,” Stockwell added. “I’m proud to have the opportunity to represent Team USA at the Paralympics, and I’m ready for Team USA to showcase our athletic ability to the world.”

The opening ceremony will be held Tuesday at the Tokyo Olympic Stadium. Of the 242 athletes who were named to the U.S. Paralympic Team, more than 115 athletes are set to attend the ceremony.

source: people.com