Scottish sporting legends Alex Marshall and Sarah Adlington are set to share the prestigious honour of carrying the Saltire for Team Scotland at the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony this Thursday. The decision, made by their fellow athletes, marks a significant moment for both competitors, particularly for Marshall, who has previously only held the flag at a closing ceremony.
Marshall, a 59-year-old bowler from East Lothian, boasts an impressive record of seven Commonwealth Games medals, including five golds across his seven appearances. Despite his extensive experience, he admitted to feeling emotional about the upcoming responsibility. Speaking to BBC Scotland on Wednesday, Marshall described the moment he saw his teammates gathered, stating, "It's not very often I get a bit emotional, but I certainly had a tear in my eye when I came out the lift this morning and all the athletes were there. It's just a huge honour." This Games is especially poignant for Marshall, as his niece, Beth Riva, will also be competing alongside him in the bowls team.
Judo heavyweight Sarah Adlington, 39, will join Marshall in leading the Scottish contingent. Adlington, who secured gold medals in 2014 and 2022, is aiming to achieve a historic treble at what she intends to be her final Commonwealth Games. She revealed that the news of their selection had been kept secret for several weeks, making the official announcement a relief. "That's been really hard," Adlington told BBC Sport Scotland. "I was told I could tell my nearest and dearest but for everyone else it will be a massive surprise."
Adlington also shared her anticipation and nerves for the big event. "I'm just so excited. I was so nervous when I woke up this morning, and I think I'll be even more nervous tomorrow. I might not even sleep tonight but if it's even half as good as it was in 2014, it will be amazing." The opening ceremony, set to take place at The Hydro, will officially kick off the Games, with both athletes embodying the spirit and pride of Team Scotland.
Marshall's iconic 'get it up ye' celebration from the 2014 Games has long been a cherished memory, but he anticipates this flag-bearing honour will surpass it. Dressed in a full kilt on a warm day, Marshall was seen clutching the flagstick with evident pride. Adlington, ever the competitor, light-heartedly joked about battling Marshall for the first hold of the flag, adding, "And I'd win that fight."