RIO 2016: Rowing gold medallist Kim Brennan will have the honour of carrying the flag and leading out the Australian Olympic Team at the Rio 2016 Closing Ceremony, as the curtain is drawn on Games of the 31st Olympiad.

The three-time Olympian inspired her teammates on and off the water at the Rio Games, just as she has done for many years across her career.

At Lagoa she won the women’s single scull final in commanding fashion, adding to her silver and bronze from four years ago.

“To lead this Team into the Maracanã will be my greatest honour,” said the 31-year-old.

“This is my third Olympic Games and it has always been a privilege to represent my nation. Getting this chance now to carry the flag, with my teammates who have all given their heart and soul into this campaign, is something you could only dream of.”

Athletes from all over Australia from 26 sports have all come together wearing the green and gold with pride. The culture embraced by the Australian contingent at Rio 2016 has been that of #OneTeam and this is something Brennan feels very strongly about.

“The great thing about competing at the Olympic Games is that all 422 athletes and everyone involved comes together as one.

“Whether you are from rowing, basketball, archery, athletics or any other sport you are a part of the Australian Olympic Team and that is something that is very special.

“When I wave that flag at the Closing Ceremony I know I will be representing my teammates and all Australians back home.”

The former hurdler who turned to rowing after injury has been working to perfect the technical and physical demands of rowing for over 10 years. In Rio that persistence and striving for perfection paid off as she added Olympic gold to her world title.

AOC