Political leaders in race to support Team GB in Rio

rio opening ceremony

Our political leaders have been quick off the blocks to support British athletes taking part in the Olympic Games.

Prime Minister Theresa May said: “On behalf of the whole country I want to wish Team GB every success for this summer’s Olympic Games in Rio.

“Four years ago you won more medals than countries ten times our size. Your sheer hard work, your courage and character inspired our nation and brought our United Kingdom together with a wonderful sense of pride.

“I know that you will do so again.

“And although you will not see the same crowds cheering you on in Rio, I want you to know that those same crowds will be there in spirit. The whole nation will be behind you, watching on our televisions and backing you all the way.

“English, Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish all together with one flag, singing one anthem and supporting one team. Our team. Team GB. So Good Luck in Rio – and I say to the whole country, let’s ‘Bring on the Great’ this summer.”

games 2

A record number of Scottish athletes have travelled to Brazil to compete in the Rio Olympics, and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has sent a message of support to Team GB and to the 53 Scottish Olympians selected.

These include tennis player Andy Murray, who was selected as the Team GB flag bearer, and rowers Katherine Grainger and Heather Stanning, who all brought home gold at the last Olympics in London in 2012 and will be defending their titles in Rio.

The First Minister said: “There is no higher honour than competing on a global stage and I am delighted that so many Scottish athletes will be performing in Rio.

“The Olympics is one of the highest profile sporting events in the world, and is a tremendous opportunity to compete against the best sportsmen and women in the world.

“I will be cheering on all of them throughout the games and I hope that the hard work and dedication these athletes have put in will pay off.

“I wish all 53 of Scotland’s Olympians, and all of Team GB, the very best of luck.”

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davepickering

Edinburgh reporter and photographer