Finn Butcher

Kiwis Take on Paris: Lisa Carrington and Finn Butcher Lead the Medal March!

Get ready to cheer as NZ's shining stars, Dame Lisa Carrington and Finn Butcher, carry the flag at the Paris 2024 Olympics closing ceremony! 🌟🇳🇿

New Zealand is raising its flag high as we gear up for the grand finale of the Paris 2024 Olympics! Leading the charge will be none other than Dame Lisa Carrington, who has once again proven why she’s one of our greatest sporting heroes, along with the dynamic Finn Butcher. As an eight-time champion, Carrington has truly outdone herself, collecting a staggering three gold medals in Paris alone, taking her total Olympic count to an impressive eight golds and one bronze! Talk about making a splash! With their eyes set firmly on the prize, these two talented athletes will be carrying the Kiwi flag into the iconic Stade de France for the closing ceremony, and you can bet they’ll give it all they’ve got!

Dame Lisa Carrington isn’t just carrying flags; she’s carrying the hopes and dreams of a nation on her shoulders. This phenomenal paddler has carved her name into the annals of New Zealand's sports history, becoming the most successful Olympian our country has ever produced. It’s not every day you get to see someone achieve that level of greatness, especially as she leads a squad of her fellow athletes who have also given their all in this monumental event. Finn Butcher, meanwhile, is not just riding along in her wake; as the inaugural Olympic kayak cross champion, he knows a thing or two about navigating through tough competition!

Being honoured as the Ngā Pou Hapai, or flagbearers, was a delightful surprise for both Carrington and Butcher. Announced by Chef de Mission Nigel Avery in front of their teammates at the Olympic Village, this moment surely added a sparkle of joy in an already ecstatic atmosphere. This prestigious role not only celebrates their incredible achievements individually but also embodies the spirit of unity in sports, representing all Kiwis who have poured their hearts into their Olympic journey this year.

As we wave goodbye to Paris 2024, filled with excitement and pride, let’s take a moment to appreciate the enormity of what our athletes have achieved. Believe it or not, the New Zealand team has had its most fruitful Olympics yet, bringing home an incredible haul of medals that would make any Kiwi’s heart swell with pride! And here’s a fun fact: did you know that the Olympic Games originated in ancient Greece as a series of athletic competitions among representatives of city-states? Just like our Kiwis today, they were all about healthy competition and showcasing their strongest athletes. What an honor it is to stand on the shoulders of history as Carrington and Butcher lead the way for New Zealand!