Kaputin picked as flag bearer

NATIONAL jumps record holder Rellie Kaputin has been named as the flag bearer for Team Papua New Guinea to the July 25-Aug 8 Commonwealth Games in England.
PNG Olympic Committee secretary-general Auvita Rapilla made the announcement on Monday during the contingent’s farewell to Birmingham. It was also a welcome reception for Team PNG athletes from the Northern Marianas Pacific Mini Games.
Kaputin is the national record holder in long, triple and high jumps, and is the Pacific Games record holder for the long jump.
“It is an honour to fly the national flag high and lead Team PNG at the Games,” Rapilla said.
“Rellie’s outstanding jump records and achievements nationally and internationally over the last three years speak for themselves.
“Her humble personality also speaks for itself. She sustained a serious injury, but through rehabilitation, commitment and determination, she overcame it in 18 months and qualified for the Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan, last year.
“She became PNG’s 66th Olympian.”
The 29-year-old said she was grateful for the chance to lead Team PNG in the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony.
“I wasn’t expecting this,” Kaputin said.
“But through my commitment and hard work, I think I deserve this. I thank the committee for giving me this opportunity. I’m really proud to go out there and hold the flag of my country.”