Commonwealth Games champions Nina Kennedy and Tim Hodge have been named the Australian flag and baton bearers for the opening ceremony in Glasgow.
Kennedy and Hodge, both reigning champions from Birmingham 2022, will lead the Australian team out on Friday July 24 (AEST).
Competing at their third Commonwealth Games, Kennedy and Hodge were announced as the flag and baton bearers by Australian Chef de Mission Petria Thomas at the Bridge Gardens in Glasgow, just up from the city’s River Clyde, on Wednesday afternoon (local time).
Kennedy, the Olympic and Commonwealth Games pole vault champion, has struggled with injury since Paris 2024 to be in Glasgow, and said it meant more than she could put into words to lead the team out at the opening ceremony.
“I am so proud to follow in the footsteps of so many great Australians who have carried the flag before me,” Kennedy said.
“The Commonwealth Games have always meant so much to me; it’s where I won my first medal back in 2018.
“This is my third Games, and I’m lucky enough to be defending my title. My final isn’t until later in the week, so I’ll get a bit of a sleep-in the morning after. I’ve worked with our team to make sure I’m as prepared as I can be, and there’s no version of the Games where I’d miss the chance to carry that flag.”
Hodge, who will be defending his title in the men’s 100m backstroke S9, was honoured to be given the role.
“I’ve been lucky enough to compete at two Commonwealth Games already, and I’ve watched the team come into the stadium both times and felt so much pride watching the green and gold walking in,” Hodge said
“To now have that role myself, to have it happen in Glasgow of all places, the same city where I made my international debut, means the Games already feel special.
“It’s the first time that I’ll march too, I’m usually competing first day. I can’t wait to feel the excitement.”
Thomas said Kennedy and Hodge were given the honour not just because of their results, but because of their leadership in the Australian team.
“Each of them has longevity, character and humility, and the support of the whole Australian sporting community behind them,” Thomas said.
“Nina gives just as much off the track as she does on, and we know she is a proven performer … Tim is at his third Commonwealth Games, with two Paralympic gold medals and a world record to his name.
“He made his Australian debut in this very city over a decade ago, and everywhere he goes he brings a calm yet inspiring approach that lifts those around him.
“I know they’ll lead our team out with pride and grace.”
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Billie Eder is a sports reporter at The Sydney Morning Herald.Connect via X or email.
