Oly: Beashel has weight of sailing fraternity as he carries flag

AAP General News (Australia)
08-14-2004
Oly: Beashel has weight of sailing fraternity as he carries flag

When COLIN BEASHEL leads the Australian team into the Olympic stadium for the opening
ceremony, he not only carries the flag but also the weight of the sailing fraternity.

It's the first time a sailor has been chosen to carry the Australian flag at an Olympic
opening ceremony.

Athens is BEASHEL's sixth games and, although his best Olympic result is a bronze in
Atlanta, he doesn't believe his flagbearing role places any extra pressure on him.

His record six games is equalled only by equestrian ANDREW HOY and winter Olympian,
speed skater COLIN COATES.

The whole Australian sailing team is barracking for BEASHEL in the hope his role will
deliver the sport some publicity.

AAP RTV sal/nh/lma

KEYWORD: OLY AUST FLAG (ATHENS)

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