Paralympics legend Sophie Pascoe and athletics bolter Will Stedman have been named New Zealand’s flag bearers for the Tokyo Paralympics.
With the New Zealand team being pulled from marching at the Opening Ceremony due to Japan's escalating Covid situation Pascoe and Stedman have been name as the team's Hāpai Kara, leaders of the New Zealand team for these games.
It's a huge achievement for Pascoe who has opened up to 1 NEWS about her uncertainty leading into these games.
But now at her fourth Paralympic games those doubts are gone.
"I’m hungry for more, it's been a 20-year cycle for me so far.
“I just love the adrenaline rush of what swimming gives me. I love the competition I love being competitive and swimming gives me that platform," said Pascoe.
The 28-year-old has just about done it all.
World champion, Paralympics legend, Commonwealth Games flag bearer.
And for the first time in her career she can add Paralympics flag bearer to her list, which she says is an honour.
"There’s been so many times I’ve had to decline it and that’s just downright down to my schedule of swims so I’m very honoured to lead any team out."
When asked if she had told long-time coach Roly Crichton of her recent achievement she broke out with laughter.
"No, I haven’t told Roly yet, I should probably do that,” a laughing Pascoe said.
Don't worry, she's since told her long-time coach, who's back at home in Christchurch.
Meanwhile Rio double bronze medallist Stedman joins Pascoe as the team's official leaders.
Instead of flying the flag at the opening ceremony they'll be celebrated within their own sports team bubbles in the village.
"I wasn't expecting it at all. It's definitely an honour to be representing New Zealand this way and lead in this way so yeah really cool.
"My goal is to win two medals in the long jump and the 400 metres and I’d like to improve on those colours."
The New Zealand colours, ones that will be well represented over the next 11 days.
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