The New Zealand team will recognise its two teenage medallists as the country's most successful Winter Olympics campaign draws to a close in Pyeongchang.
Snowboarder Zoi Sadowski-Synnott. Photo: Photosport
Bronze medal-winning snowboarder Zoi Sadowski-Synnott has been named official flag bearer for Sunday night's closing ceremony after she became the first New Zealander to win a Winter Games medal in 26 years.
Fellow bronze medallist 16-year-old Nico Porteous will also be honoured during the ceremony by leading the New Zealand delegation into the stadium.
"This is undoubtedly the most successful Olympic Winter team in New Zealand's history. We're looking forward to marching in the closing ceremony tonight and reflecting on our team's success," said chef de mission Pete Wardell.
"These 21 Olympic Winter athletes have really inspired New Zealand with their courage, determination and ability. What's more, they've worked together to support and inspire each other. I couldn't be more proud.
"I'm especially delighted to recognise both Zoi and Nico tonight. Winning our first and second medals in 26 years has meant they will go down in New Zealand sporting history."
"The bravery and skill it took to complete their tricks cannot be underestimated and I commend them for it."
Sadowski-Synnott, who made the podium of the women's big air event, will become New Zealand's youngest Olympic flag bearer, while Porteous became the country's youngest Olympic medallist with his third in the men's freestyle skiing halfpipe competition.
Kereyn Smith, NZOC CEO, said the strong results recorded illustrate the increasing the depth in New Zealand's Winter Olympic sports, as well as the hard work of athletes, coaches and support staff.
"I would also like to recognise the athletes that came so close to the podium.
"Beau James Wells finished with an outstanding performance just behind Nico in the men's freeski halfpipe and Carlos Garcia Knight was fifth in the snowboard slopestyle.
"Peter Michael showed us New Zealand's capability on the ice as he finished fourth in the men's speedskating 5000 metres and again with teammates Shane Dobbin and Reyon Kay as part of the men's team pursuit."
Byron Wells, Finn Bilous, Janina Kuzma also claimed top 16 results.
The team was notable for the prevalence of young athletes. Alice Robinson, Nico and Miguel Porteous, Finn Bilous, Tiarn Collins, Jackson Wells and Zoi Sydowski-Synnott are all in their teens and have strong futures in Olympic Winter sports.
Ashley Light of Snowsports High Performance congratulated and thanked the team.
"Obviously we are thrilled with the personal best performances of all the athletes and the icing on the cake was the two bronze medals.
"The performances of our athletes and the medal achievements show the Snowsports New Zealand (SSNZ) strategy is working well and we are looking forward to the next Olympic Winter Games, Beijing 2022."
The closing ceremony kicks off at midnight on Sunday (NZ time).
