For James Tomkins, receiving the call from Australian Olympic Committee president John Coates asking him to carry the Australian flag at tonight’s opening ceremony was one of the greatest thrills of his life.
In carrying the flag, Tomkins will take his place alongside other famous Olympians: Colin Beashel (2004), Andrew Gaze (2000), Andrew Hoy (1996), Jenny Donnet (1992), and Ric Charlesworth (1988).
“To be even considered as the flag bearer is an achievement in itself and I know how hard a decision this must have been for John (Coates) because of the calibre of athletes in the Australian team. It is a great honour,” Tomkins commented as the announcement was made at the Australian team reception.
John Coates said the decision to appoint Tomkins was easy: “James’ motivation and passion have nothing to do with any consideration of monetary rewards. They have everything to do with his enduring desire to compete at the highest level. He sets a wonderful example, and we, the Australian Olympic movement, are very proud of him.”
JAMES TOMKINS
BORN: Sydney, Aug 19 1965
HEIGHT: 199cm (6’6″)
WEIGHT: 98kg
OCCUPATION: Merchant bankerOLYMPICS:
1988 Seoul 5th (eight)
1992 Barcelona Gold (four)
1996 Atlanta Gold (four)
2000 Sydney Bronze (pair)
2004 Athens Gold (pair)WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS*
1986 Nottingham Gold (eight)
1990 Lake Barrington (Tas) Gold (four)
1991 Vienna Gold (four)
1998 Cologne Gold (four)
1998 Cologne Gold (pair)
1999 Ontario, Canada Gold (pair)
2003 Milan Gold (pair)COMMONWEALTH GAMES
1986 Edinburgh Gold (eight) – rowing discontinued* Tomkins is the only rower to win world titles in all sweep-oared events
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