Kiana Stevenson and Larn Hamblyn-Ough will tonight lead the New Zealand Team into the Opening Ceremony of the Trinbago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games after being named Ngā Pou Hapai (flagbearers).
Stevenson and Hamblyn-Ough were formally named at team functions this afternoon in Trinidad and Tobago.
“I was speechless when I got the call, I’m so excited and my parents were so excited, it’s such an awesome opportunity and I’m so grateful to be given the role,” said Stevenson.
“It’s a really special opportunity,” added Hamblyn-Ough. “I don’t know exactly what to expect but it’s a huge honour and I can’t wait to lead the team out in the stadium tonight.”
Rangitoto College student Stevenson transitioned from netball to volleyball in 2019 and hasn’t looked back, racking up accolades including the National Secondary School Championships Title and 6th place at the Secondary School World Beach Volleyball Championships.
“I’m really excited to play some quality volleyball, meet some new people, learn a lot and experience a new culture as well,” said Stevenson.
For Westlake Boys High student Hamblyn-Ough the Games will be his second major international competition following the 2022 Junior Pan Pacific Championships in Hawaii.
The 17-year-old will be competing in the 200m Butterfly, 400m Freestyle, Men’s 1500m Freestyle and 4x200m mixed Freestyle Relay.
“I’m a bit nervous but I loved the Pan Pac’s last year and I can’t wait to get in the pool and get racing.”
New Zealand Team Leader Evelyn Williamson (Olympian #865) says the athletes were chosen not just because of their outstanding athletic record but also because of the discipline and leadership they display across the board.
“Larn and Kiana have a very impressive ability to excel at a range of disciplines while being team players and an inspiration to others”, Williamson said.
“They exemplify all the attributes that are key to being both a successful athlete and one New Zealand can be proud of.”
The Games are taking place August 4th – 11th, with more than 1,000 athletes from 71 nations and territories set to compete across seven sports.
The Commonwealth Youth Games are part of the NZOC’s pre-elite pathway and provide a development opportunity for promising young athletes. Trinbago 2023 will provide a high level of competition as well as access to educational and cultural experiences.
The Opening Ceremony will be held tonight at Hasely Crawford Stadium in Trinidad.
Competition begins with our men’s beach volleyball team taking on Gambia on August 5th (6th NZT). A full competition schedule is available here.
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