Sarah Lavin and Shane Lowry named as Team Ireland flag bearers

Golfer Shane Lowry and athlete Sarah Lavin will carry the Irish flag for the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, it has been announced.

Offaly's Lowry and Limerick native Lavin will lead Team Ireland’s 133-strong team out at this evening’s ceremony (6pm Irish time, live on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player).

The event will take place along a stretch of the Seine in Paris.

Major winner Lowry is competing at his second Games and Lavin, also about to become a two-time Olympian, enters the 100m hurdles.

"It's surreal and the greatest honour I've ever been given," said Lavin.

"I'm so grateful to those who have trusted me and put me in this position. It's emotional as well. There are a lot of people you are representing.

"I'm deeply touched and just so excited to get out there."

Lowry said: "It's a huge honour for me and my family. Anybody who knows me knows how much I love Ireland and how much I love playing for my country.

"I always wear the Irish flag with pride and to get to do something like this is something I'll remember forever."

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