Shropshire Star

Lee Pearson carries the GB flag at Paralympics

Ten-time Paralympic champion Lee Pearson has been named as Great Britain's flag bearer for tonight's opening ceremony of the XV Games in Rio.

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The 42-year-old equestrian rider from Staffordshire won three golds at each of the 2000, 2004 and 2008 Paralympics.

He also won team gold at the London 2012 Games, plus one silver and one bronze. Pearson was nominated in a vote of his 263 ParalympicsGB team-mates, competing across 19 of the 22 sports, to carry the flag at the Maracana Stadium in the opening extravaganza.

Pearson describes himself as a "colourful character". He was born with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, meaning his limbs were twisted and have very little muscle.

"I am so proud and honoured to be the flag bearer for such a talented, strong and passionate group of British athletes," Pearson said. "I genuinely feel that we are among the best prepared and supported athletes at the Paralympic Games."

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