With the Tokyo Olympics right around the corner, preparations are well underway and today, Malta’s Olympic Committee announced who will have the honour to carry Malta’s flag at the opening and closing ceremonies at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Swimmer Andrew Chetcuti and indoor pistol shooter Eleanor Bezzina have been chosen for the respective roles, based on their previous experience and their representation of the country at earlier editions of the Games.

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“We decided on those who are the most representative of our country in these games,” the Committee’s President, Julian Pace Bonello reportedly said.

This edition will be Andrew’s third time competing after making his debut at the 2012 London Olympics, followed by his participation in the 2016 Games in Rio.

On the other hand, this will be Eleanor’s second time, after first representing Malta in the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

Malta’s Olympic athletes kick start their journey to Tokyo on 17^th July, with the first athlete to compete being badminton player Matthew Abela who is set to play on 24^th July. Eleanor will follow on 25^th July. Weightlifter Yazmin Zammit Stevens and Andrew will compete respectively on 27^th July and track and field athlete Carla Scicluna will then race on 30^th July.

Best of luck to all athletes!