Two Canadian athletes have been chosen to lead Canada’s delegation at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. Wheelchair basketball player Kady Dandeneau and lawn bowler Ryan Bester have been selected to carry the national flag as the Games begin this week.
The announcement, described by Chef de Mission Erica Wiebe as highlighting “the values of Team Canada and the Commonwealth movement,” places Dandeneau and Bester at the forefront of Canada’s participation in the event. Dandeneau, noted for her wheelchair basketball prowess, and Bester, a longtime lawn bowler who has previously competed on the international stage, will represent the country during the opening ceremony ceremony in Glasgow.
The decision underscores a collaborative approach to leadership roles within Team Canada, leveraging athletes from diverse disciplines to symbolize the country’s commitment to sport and inclusion on the Commonwealth stage. The flag-bearer selection is historically a ceremonial honor that signals the start of Canada’s competitive involvement in the Games.
Glasgow is hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games, where a wide array of Canadian athletes are expected to compete across multiple sports. The opening ceremony will mark the formal beginning of Canada’s campaign, with Dandeneau and Bester expected to participate in the procession alongside delegations from other nations.
Details about the exact timing of the procession or additional ceremonial duties for the Canadian flag-bearers were not provided in the announcement. Attendance by spectators is anticipated, aligning with the Games’ broader return to full-scale celebration following pandemic-related restrictions in past editions.
Canada’s delegation and supporters will look to the flag-bearers as ambassadors who reflect national pride, athletic achievement, and perseverance as the country competes across a broad spectrum of events at the Commonwealth Games. Further updates on Canada’s schedule and athletes are expected as preparations continue in Glasgow.