London, England: The Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, has sprung a surprise in the selection of the flag-bearer at the Olympic Games opening ceremony on Friday, July 27: cyclist Sarah Lee Wai Sze. In a press release dated July 21, the Olympic Committee said another member of the cycling team, veteran road racer Wong Kam Po, had been the hot favourite of the Hong Kong public to carry the flag, but the Beijing 2008 flag-bearer was overlooked on this occasion because he had to race in London the following day.

NOC President Timothy Fok appointed Lee as flag-bearer, citing her qualifications, potential and achievements. Lee’s recent achievements include 2010 Asian Games 500m time trial gold medallist and sprint bronze medallist in the Guangzhou Velodrome.