With Paris 2024 drawing to its closing stages, it is now time for the Nation to select the players to represent their team at the Closing Ceremony. These players will serve as flag bearers for their incredible accomplishments in their respective games for displaying both athleticism and humanity during the last weeks.
Canada has chosen two of its brightest athletes who have won the hearts of the nation with their performances and left a lasting impression on their teammates as well. Two names have been chosen to carry the flag on their behalf at the Stade de France: swimming sensation Summer McIntosh and hammer thrower Ethan Katzberg.
Summer McIntosh scripted history at Paris 2024 by winning four medals for Canada despite being 17 years old. By winning the 400m individual med, 200m individual med, and 200m butterfly event, McIntosh became the first Canadian athlete to win three gold medals at a single Olympic event. However, she didn’t stop there and won a silver medal in the 400-meter freestyle event. 
“Oh my god! I’d be so honored! ”McIntosh said excitedly to Olympic Canada. “There’s been so many incredible performances at the Games, and for me to be chosen as flag bearer is pretty incredible. I’m truly honored to hold the flag for Canada.
Besides McIntosh, Katzberg was chosen to represent Canada for his exceptional performance at the Stade de France. Katzberg secured the gold medal on his first throw in the final at the Stade de France. 84.12 meters was the most impressive throw. Given that it was his first throw, it makes it even more historic for the nation, which is thrilled with his performance.
Katzberg had already left the Paris 2024 camp to continue training in Slovakia when Bruny Surin, Canada’s Chef de Mission, asked him to serve as flag bearer.
“No kidding! ”Katzberg exclaimed. “That’s a great honor and an amazing way to end the Olympics. ”
Katzberg also spoke about the love he has received from people over the past week, which has made him humble and truly honoured.
Team Canada, led by Andre De Grasse and Maude Charron in the opening ceremony of Paris 2024, also had a successful tournament after performing spectacularly at Paris 2024.
De Grasse won the gold medal in the 4x100m relay race, becoming one of the most decorated Canadian Olympians with seven medals, along with Penny Oleksiak of the swimming contingent. Charron broke down when she won the silver medal in the women’s 59 kg weightlifting class in Paris 2024. This was after winning gold in the same category in Tokyo 2021.
The Closing Ceremony will also mark the transfer of hosting duties to Los Angeles, which will host the Olympic Summer Games in 2028.
Click HERE for the Complete Medal Tally of the Paris 2024
