Jess Fox and Eddie Ockenden to Carry Australia’s Flag at Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony

In an exciting announcement, slalom canoeist Jess Fox and hockey player Eddie Ockenden have been chosen to carry Australia’s flag at the upcoming Paris Olympics opening ceremony.

This year’s ceremony, a unique occasion held on the Seine, will take place on Saturday morning, Australian time. Jess Fox is competing in her fourth Olympics and Eddie Ockenden is set to make his fifth appearance.

Fox, who originally hails from Marseille, expressed her feelings about this honor, saying, “It’s probably the greatest moment of my career.” She shared her excitement for bringing her two cultures, French and Australian, together during this historic moment.

Fox has had a standout career, winning multiple medals over her Olympic journey, including a gold medal in the C1 event at the Tokyo Olympics. Meanwhile, Ockenden will make history as the first Tasmanian to carry Australia’s flag at an opening ceremony.

Ockenden, now 37, has been a pivotal player for the Kookaburras. He assisted the team in securing bronze medals at the 2008 and 2012 Games and contributed to their silver win in Tokyo.

The announcement came from Australian chef de mission Anna Meares at a special event held at the Paris Mint, known for its historical significance in creating Olympic medals.

Both athletes are thrilled to represent Australia and look forward to showcasing their nation to the world as they make their grand entrance during the ceremony. Over 320,000 spectators are expected to watch this unprecedented Olympic event, which is the first opening ceremony not held inside a stadium.

Reflecting on the honor, Ockenden said, “I can’t believe that I’m here honestly,” emphasizing his gratitude to be sharing this honor with Jess Fox.

Fox will not be the first canoeist to carry the Australian flag; that honor previously belonged to Dennis Green at the 1972 Munich Olympics. Her recognition is even more special as she shares the experience with her sister, Noemie, who is also part of the Australian team.

This moment is particularly significant for Fox, as she shared her family’s move from Marseille to Sydney at the age of four, where her passion for canoeing began.