Fyfe and Dean set to carry the flag at Dakar 2026 Closing Ceremony

Windsurfer Honor Fyfe and Boxer Huriwaka Dean have been selected as Ngā Pou Hāpai (flag bearers) for the Closing Ceremony at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.

Both Pou Hāpai Wāhine (female flag bearer) Fyfe and Pou Hāpai Tāne (male flag bearer) Dean said they were shocked and honoured to be leading the New Zealand Team into the Closing Ceremony in Dakar.

“I thought there was just going to be some food at the end of the Games and then we would all gap it! But now I know there’s a Closing Ceremony and a flag bearer,” said Fyfe.

“I’m sure it will be an insane feeling to walk out and see all the people in the crowd, I’m looking forward to experiencing it,” she said.

Boxer Dean said the honour of carrying the flag was very unexpected.

“I was in shock when I was told, I didn’t say anything. I was processing it for a while for sure,” said Dean.

“I think it will feel pretty surreal. There’s a lot of countries out there and being in that atmosphere will be pretty cool,” he said.

New Zealand Team Chef de Mission, Evelyn Williamson said the pair were thoroughly deserving flag bearers and both embodied qualities synonymous with the Team’s culture of manaaki.

“Honor has thrown herself into every adventure and opportunity here in Dakar, while making a real effort to support her teammates and be there for others whenever she could. She has genuinely embodied the spirit of what the Youth Olympic Games are all about,” said Williamson.

“We've watched her compete with gritty determination, patience, adaptability and focus. Even when results didn’t go her way, she was quick to crack a joke, flash a smile and bounce back ready to go again.

“What stands out the most with Honor, is her infectious energy, endless positivity and absolute can-do attitude,” said Williamson.

Williamson described Dean as a fierce yet humble competitor, who is always willing to learn and improve.

“Humility is one of the greatest assets an athlete can have at the elite level, and he has it in spades. His attitude and respect for others never waivers, and he is proof that you don't need a tough persona to be a great fighter,” she said.

“Huriwaka is an exceptional role model for the next generation and having him lead the Team into the Closing Ceremony is testament to the work he’s put into this campaign and the quality of his character,” said Williamson.

The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Closing Ceremony is set to start at 7am on Saturday morning (NZT).