President James Michel handed over the Seychelles National flag to Best Sportsman of the Year, Mr. Rodney Govinden, flag bearer of the Seychelles team participating at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 5th to 21st August 2016. The sending off ceremony which took place at State House this morning was also attended by Vice President Danny Faure, the President’s Diplomatic Advisor, Ambassador Callixte D’offay and the Principal Secretary for Community Development and Sport, Mr. Denis Rose.

President Michel congratulated the athletes for being selected for such a major international multi-sport event and called on them to make Seychelles proud.

“It is a unique opportunity given to you to represent your country at such an important event. Try your best to fly high the Seychelles flag and why not bring home a gold medal. What is also important is your participation at these Olympic Games and I am sure that you will strive for the best result and make Seychelles proud. I wish all of you the best of luck and success,” said President Michel at the sending off ceremony.

During the ceremony, the athletes also presented Mr. Michel with a trophy of appreciation for his contribution toward the Seychelles Team to Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

In total 10 athletes will be participating in six sports disciplines at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, five among whom qualified for the Olympic games and the other five are going on invitation. The Seychelles delegation also comprises of the President for the Seychelles Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (SOCGA), Mr. Antonio Gopal, the Secretary General of Seychelles Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (SOCGA), Mr. Alain Alcindor, Chef de Mission, Mr. Michel Bau, coaches,a doctor and a physiotherapist.

Speaking to the national media after the ceremony, Mr. Govinden said that all the athletes are ready for the competition ahead and to give their best.

Editor’s note:

- The Seychelles Team comprises Ms. Lissa Labiche and Ned Azemia – Athletics, Mr. Andrique Allisop – Boxing, Mr. Dominic Dugasse – Judo, Mr. Jean-Marc Gardette, Mr. Allan Julie and Rodney Govinden – Sailing, Mr. Adam Viktora and Ms. Alexus Laird – Swimming, Mr. Rick Confiance – Weightlifting