‘Straya’s Paralympic Flagbearer Is Wheelchair Basketball Capt Brad Ness

Men’s wheelchair basketball captain Brad Ness has been chosen as Australia‘s flag bearer for the 2016 Rio Paralympic opening ceremony, which kicks off this Thursday morning (AEST).

Ness, who made his Paralympic debut in Sydney 2000, said on Instagram that he’s “stoked” to be named flag bearer.

“It was about the first time in my life I was stuck for words, I was a bit shocked,” he told Sunrise this morning from Rio about receiving the news.

“It’s pretty special, very few people get to represent Australia at an Olympics or at a Paralympics in general, then to get this opportunity is huge. It’s something that I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”



Ness lost half his right leg at 18-years-old in a boating accident, but dedicated himself to recovery and sport ever since, already bringing home three medals for Australia (silvers in Athens and London, and gold in Beijing).

He confirmed to ABC that he won’t be confined to a wheelchair during the opening ceremony, and is “definitely going to march”.



Photo: Getty / Brendon Thorne.

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