Lee Pearson has been named as the flagbearer for ParalympicsGB ahead of tomorrow night's opening ceremony in Rio de Janeiro.
The para-equestrian star will lead out his fellow competitors as one of Great Britain's most decorated Paralympians.
Since making his Games debut at Sydney 2000, Pearson has gone on to win 10 gold medals, one silver and one bronze across the team, individual and freestyle events.
BREAKING: @MrLeePearsonCBE named as ParalympicsGB #OpeningCeremony flagbearer: https://t.co/M1L4SSnNfE#Supercharge pic.twitter.com/Eo112DYXh0
— ParalympicsGB (@ParalympicsGB) September 6, 2016
"I am so proud and honoured to be the flagbearer for such a talented, strong and passionate group of British athletes," said Pearson.
"Being a diverse character myself has meant that being voted by the athletes themselves has made this moment even more special.
"I genuinely feel that we are among the best prepared and supported athletes at the Paralympic Games and I can't wait to lead my fellow team mates from ParalympicsGB into the stadium in a day's time - I hope I don't get blown away!"
ParalympicsGB chef de mission Penny Briscoe added: "Lee has been a cornerstone of our equestrian team since he first made his debut in Sydney and has played a key role in establishing Great Britain as a leading Paralympic nation in the sport.
"I was delighted to inform him that he has been chosen, with the backing of his peers in Rio, to take the role of flagbearer in the Opening Ceremony, and the team will be proud to march out behind him. I hope it is one of many memorable moments that he will take away from this Games, and wish him all the very best in his upcoming competition."
The Paralympics will run from September 7 to 18.
Danielle Joynson
