Kalyn McGuire competes in women's skeleton at the Lillehammer 2016 Winter Youth Olympic Games on Feb. 19, 2016 in Hafjell, Norway.
LILLEHAMMER, Norway – Women’s skeleton athlete Kalyn McGuire (Queensbury, N.Y.) was selected to lead Team USA’s 62 athletes into Sunday’s (Feb. 21) Closing Ceremony as flag bearer at the Lillehammer 2016 Winter Youth Olympic Games, as announced today by the United States Olympic Committee. McGuire is the first skeleton athlete to serve as flag bearer for Team USA at either the Olympic Winter Games or Youth Olympic Games.
“To compete for our great country is a huge honor, and I cannot express my pride and joy to be the flag bearer," McGuire said. "These Games have been a tremendous success for U.S. athletes and Norway has been a gracious host. The athletes have learned and grown so much. We have been inspired to be our best. I want to continue to embody the Olympic values and make my country proud. Although getting to the Games took blood, sweat and tears, I wouldn't trade my experience for anything. I have made so many international friendships and amazing memories I will never forget.”
McGuire – who started her career as a ski jumper – competed in women’s skeleton on Friday, which was held at the Lillehammer Olympic Sliding Center. The 16-year-old finished in 16th place with a two-run time of 1:54.80.
“We were pleased to announce that Kalyn was flag bearer, because she embodies everything these Games are about,” said Wes Barnett, chef de mission for Team USA. “Not only did she represent the U.S. well on the field of play, she embraced the Learn & Share and cultural activities off it, which is a very important component of these Games.”
Following 10 days of competition, the Lillehammer 2016 Games will conclude with the Closing Ceremony, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. at the Lysgardsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena. The second winter edition of the Youth Games featured 1,100 athletes from more than 70 nations and included all 15 sports on the program for the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games.
