"Robust" weightlifter Diaz chosen to carry Philippines flag at Olympic Opening Ceremony

By Mike Rowbottom at the Main Press Centre on the Olympic Park in London

July 18 - Weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz has been named to carry the Philippines flag at the London 2012 Olympic  Games  – because she is the only member of the team "robust" enough to hold it throughout the Opening Ceremony.

Manny Lopez, the Philippines Chef de Mission, said archer Mark Javier and shooter Brian Rosario had both been discounted from the role.

"Their hands might get sore, especially in the case of our shooter – you know how delicate that sport is," he said.

Lopez added: "Considering her schedule and that there will be no strain on her part, the board named Hidilyn Diaz as our flag-bearer in London.

"It's not an easy task because you have to hold onto the flag for a couple of hours during the parade – and it's quite heavy."

Diaz, who is competing in the 58kg class, is appearing at her second Games, after finishing 10th in Beijing.

She is the only weightlifter from Philippines competing at London 2012.

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