Lorig, Competing for Third Nation, Will Carry U.S. Flag

U.S. Olympic team captains voted archer Khatuna Lorig, who is competing for her third nation during these Games, to be the flag bearer at Sunday's Closing Ceremony, the U.S. Olympic Committee announced Saturday morning.
Born in Tbilisi, Georgia, Lorign won a bronze medal while representing the Unified Team of the former Soviet Union at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona. She competed for Georgia at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta and the 2000 Summer Games in Sydney. Sudanese-born Lopez Lomong carried the flag for the U.S. team during the Opening Ceremony.
"Being named the U.S. flag bearer for the Closing Ceremony is almost like winning a gold medal, maybe even better," Lorig, 34, said. "I thought I could win a gold medal in competition, but I never thought I'd have this opportunity. I am truly, truly so proud to be an American citizen and part of the U.S. Olympic Team."
Lorig emigrated to the United States after the 2000 Games, but wasn't eligible for the Athens Games four years ago because she hadn't yet won her U.S. citizenship. In the Beijing Olympic tournament, she upset the 10th seed, Ana Maria Rendon of Colombia, but lost in the quarterfinals to the eventual bronze medal winner and world-record holder Yun Ok-Hee of Korea.
"I will do my best to represent archery and the U.S. Delegation both at the Closing Ceremony and afterwards to hold up the responsibilities deserving of this great honor," Lorig said. "I wouldn't want to compete for any other country. I send my best wishes to everyone on the U.S. Team."

By Amy Shipley  |  August 22, 2008; 11:20 PM ET  | Category:  Archery
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