As Belize’s sole representative at the Paris 2024 Olympics, sprinter Shaun Gill has embraced his role as the nation’s standout athlete, declaring himself the “most famous man” in Belize. His status comes with a blend of pride and pressure, as he competes among a group of select athletes representing their countries alone.
Gill, one of only four solo competitors at the Games, shared his experience with fellow athletes, revealing the isolating nature of being the only flagbearer while still celebrating the thrill of the opening ceremony. Fellow competitors in the athletes’ village have sought out his autograph, leading Gill to humorously consider a security detail to manage his newfound fame.
In contrast to larger delegations from nations like the US and UK, which have hundreds of athletes to choose from for flagbearers, smaller nations like Belize face unique challenges. With a population of fewer than 500,000, Belize joins the ranks of Liechtenstein, Nauru, and Somalia with single representatives at the Olympics.
During the ceremonies, Gill enthusiastically waved his country’s flag, captivating audiences despite the pouring rain. However, the pressure of carrying his nation’s hopes weighed on him, particularly after not qualifying for the men’s 100m final. He attributed his performance to jet lag, voicing concern about disappointing his fellow countrymen.
Another African representative, Ali Idow Hassan from Somalia, harbors hopes of reaching the medals podium in the men’s 800m race. If successful, he will advance to the semi-finals, while the fleeting opportunity may end quickly for him and his nation.
Despite the challenges of competing alone, Hassan has found camaraderie with athletes from other African nations, easing feelings of solitude. Romano Püntener, a mountain biker from Liechtenstein, experienced his own moments of recognition when tennis star Andy Murray sought to trade pins with him—a rarity from a nation of only 38,000.
Püntener called the Olympics “unforgettable”, relishing the opportunity to be his country’s sole competitor and the ensuing support from a small group of fans, including the prime minister. Nevertheless, social media attention can become overwhelming, with Püntener likening the messages he received to an avalanche of encouragement.
Gill echoed similar sentiments about the flood of well-wishes impacting his focus during the Games. He eventually had to limit his phone use to regain some peace amidst the digital chaos.
With single representatives from smaller nations like Nauru, where athlete Winzar Kakiouea competed, the emphasis on personal representation carries both responsibility and expectation. Kakiouea noted that many people remain unaware of his nation, which faces challenges like a lack of proper athletic facilities.
As the Olympics conclude, these athletes will return to lives far removed from the limelight of elite sports. Gill plans to pivot towards coaching young runners in Belize while pursuing a career in engineering. Meanwhile, Püntener will head back to Schaan, a mountain town ideal for cycling, and Hassan aims to continue training in Ethiopia, with aspirations for a brighter future for Somali athletics.
Hassan believes that as Somalia’s security improves, more athletes will have the opportunity to compete on the world stage, predicting a day when ten, or even a hundred athletes represent Somalia at future Olympics.
