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Indian Olympic Association has announced contingent officials for the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024, set to be played from July 26 to August 11, 2024. With the marquee event just a few months away from the start, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has named India’s ace table tennis player Sharath Kamal as the flag bearer.
Moreover, the IOA has named Olympic bronze medallist MC Mary Kom as Chef de Mission for the Summer Games. The IOA in its press release stated, “Leading the delegation as the Chef de Mission will be none other than the iconic boxer, Mary Kom. Her unparalleled dedication to sports and inspiring journey make her a natural choice to guide and mentor our athletes at the Olympics.”
It is to be noted that Mary Kom is the first female boxer in boxing history to have clinched six women’s world championship titles. The five-time Asian champion was also the first female boxer from India to win a gold at the 2014 Asian Games. Moreover, Mary Kom will assisted by legendary Shiva Keshavan. “Kehavan, a former Olympian in luge, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to support the team’s management and coordination efforts,” the released further stated.
Furthermore, the shooting village operation will be overlooked by Gagan Narang and Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala has been appointed as the Chief Medical Officer, responsible for the health and well-being of our athletes throughout the games.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha in its statement said, “We are delighted to have such a distinguished and capable team of officials leading out contingent for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Their expertise, dedication, and passion for sports will undoubtedly inspire our athletes to achieve their best and make the nation proud.”
Sharath Kamal reacts after being named India’s flagbearer
The veteran table tennis player Sharath Kamal, who also is a two-time Commonwealth Games champion and a Khel Ratna awardee expressed himself after being named India’s flagbearer at the Olympics. In conversation with the PTI, Kamal said, “It has been an unbelievable three weeks. From not even sure of Olympic berth to playing the way I did in Singapore last week, jumping 54 spots in the rankings to being named India’s flag bearer.”
It is the biggest honour and fairytale stuff considering it is going to be my fifth and last Olympics. Also, not many TT players have got the honour, globally. I just got a call from IOA and I could not believe.”