By 3 News online staff
It’s probably been one of the biggest secrets that Nick Willis has had to keep – and it seems he’s done a sterling job.
New Zealand’s Olympic flag bearer Nick Willis has kept it quiet for the last four months that he had been asked to perform the “honour”.
He tweets today: “Absolutely honoured to be named flag bearer for New Zealand at the #london2012 Opening Ceremonies.”
And in a follow up tweet: “Was asked in March, and couldn't even tell my Dad until tonight.”
The 29-year-old middle-distance 1500 metre runner won a silver medal in the 1500m race four years ago in Beijing, after being upgraded from bronze after an athlete tested positive for performance enhancing drugs.
Today’s announcement was made at a black tie dinner in London hosted by Governor-General Jerry Mateparae.
Prior to the announcement New Zealand chef de mission Dave Currie was only giving away a few hints.
“Generally [we’re] looking for someone who has performed well at Olympic level in the past, is likely to do well this time around, but somebody who embodies all those qualities that you want to go behind them into battle.”
3 News