Commonwealth Games: Sophie Pascoe a symbol of New Zealand's progressive sporting culture

Sophie Pascoe. Photo / Getty Images

Much has changed since New Zealand's first British Empire Games contingent shared a three-week boat ride alongside their Australian counterparts to Hamilton, Canada.

Some 88 years on, Sophie Pascoe's anointment as New Zealand's 21st Commonwealth Games flag bearer epitomises our sporting journey.

Pascoe lost her left leg from the knee down as a two-year-old when her father reversed over her with a lawnmower. She began swimming at seven and refused to let that accident hold her back.

The Christchurch swimmer has since overcome adversity to claim 11 Paralympic and Commonwealth Games gold medals, spread from Beijing to Rio, London and Glasgow, along with multiple world championships.

But she will, perhaps, never receive greater recognition than creating the milestone of becoming the first para-athlete to carry the flag. That she will lead New Zealand's largest Games team, consisting of 251 athletes, in the Gold Coast only enhances the prestige.

Shot put king Tom Walsh was the easy, obvious choice. The New Zealand sportsman of the year, world indoor and outdoor champion, is a natural, humble leader. The Timaru builder's time may come but, on this occasion, the honour goes to Pascoe. And in many ways, her promotion speaks to the inclusive, nation New Zealand aspires to be.

When Pascoe carries the flag into the opening ceremony at Carrara Stadium on Wednesday night her presence will be a symbol of the progressive sporting culture New Zealand now seeks to embrace.

Pascoe's voice broke as she spoke of her pride with assuming the role, one she will never forget.

"To lead our team and be one team it's an honour I couldn't refuse," the 25-year-old said, her parents in the crowd that rose to sing the national anthem. "To be classed as just another athlete and not just a para-athlete is probably the biggest thing I can take away."

As Pascoe stood on stage in-front of 600 people at New Zealand house, pounamu around her neck and the NZ flag draped over her shoulders, her emotions were there for all to witness. She knew about the flag bearing role two weeks ago, after a surprise visit at the pool from chef de mission Rob Waddell. But only now did it truly hit home.

Governor General Dame Patsy Reddy foreshadowed the announcement when addressing the crowd and speaking about the 38 para medal events encompassing seven sports, including the wheelchair marathon, that run concurrently at these Games, following in the footsteps of Glasgow.

Waddell described Pascoe as one of New Zealand's great athletes; an inspirational champion who transcends sport and touches the hearts of many Kiwis.

Pascoe's long-time coach, Roly Crichton, said this was a breakthrough for New Zealand's mindset in sport, and had no doubts she would cope with the added expectations that inevitably accompany the role.

Crichton believed Waddell was behind the decision to select Pascoe.

"It's huge for her as a person and us as an organisation, Paralympics New Zealand," Crichton said. "It is a greater honour for other disabled people across the country."