Tongan swimmer Amini Fonua says he was blown away after being informed he would be the country's flag-bearer at the London Olympics opening ceremony in two weeks time.
The 22 year old will swim the 100m breaststroke and 50m freestyle in London and has been preparing for the Games north of Wellington.
Fonua is one of four Tongan athletes going to London and says being appointed the national flag-bearer is still sinking in.
"I was incredibly honoured. It was such a big deal and everything I do right now is for Tongan swimming and to be able to share this moment with all the support system and all the people that are promoting the sport, it's just a huge accomplishment and I share it with all of them."
Fonua says he's feeling good, afer winning the 50-metre breaststroke title at the recent Oceania Championship, but is keeping his aims in check.
Improving my world that's sort of the number one goal. I've just got to be realistic about my expectations and not expect too much. As much as I'd love to say I want a semi final or final and come top 16, top 8, unfortunately my skill level is not quite there just yet but I'm definately working towards that. I'd really like to go 1.01 or 1.02 in the 100 breaststroke - that would be a one to two second PB for me.
