Seychelles President tells athletes: Make nation proud at Rio Olympics in Brazil

Seychelles President James Michel congratulated the top-notch athletes selected to participate in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. He called on them to make Seychelles proud in this major international multi-sport event.

President Michel handed over the Seychelles national flag to Best Sportsman of the Year, Mr. Rodney Govinden, flag bearer of the Seychelles team participating at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from August 5-21, 2016. The sending-off ceremony which took place at State House this morning was also attended by Vice President Danny Faure; the President’s Diplomatic Advisor, Ambassador Callixte D’offay; and the Principal Secretary for Community Development and Sport, Mr. Denis Rose.

“It is a unique opportunity given to you to represent your country at such an important event. Try your best to fly high the Seychelles flag, and why not bring home a gold medal? What is also important is your participation at these Olympic Games, and I am sure that you will strive for the best result and make Seychelles proud. I wish all of you the best of luck and success,” said President Michel at the sending off-ceremony.

During the ceremony, the athletes also presented Mr. Michel with a trophy of appreciation for his contribution toward the Seychelles Team to Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

In total, 10 athletes will be participating in 6 sports disciplines at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, 5 among whom qualified for the Olympic games, and the other 5 are going on invitation. The Seychelles delegation also comprises of the President for the Seychelles Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (SOCGA), Mr. Antonio Gopal; the Secretary General of Seychelles Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (SOCGA), Mr. Alain Alcindor; Chef de Mission, Mr. Michel Bau; coaches; a doctor; and a physiotherapist.

Speaking to the national media after the ceremony, Mr. Govinden said that all the athletes are ready for the competition ahead and to give it their best.

The Seychelles Team comprises Ms. Lissa Labiche and Ned Azemia – Athletics, Mr. Andrique Allisop – Boxing, Mr. Dominic Dugasse – Judo, Mr. Jean-Marc Gardette, Mr. Allan Julie and Rodney Govinden – Sailing, Mr. Adam Viktora and Ms. Alexus Laird – Swimming, and Mr. Rick Confiance – Weightlifting.