World and Olympic champion pole vaulter Nina Kennedy has been named Australia’s flagbearer for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The announcement, held at the Australian team’s headquarters, confirms Kennedy will lead the 255-member delegation during the Opening Ceremony on 23 July. She becomes the fourth track and field athlete to hold the honour in the nation’s Commonwealth Games history.
Nina Kennedy’s Path to Flagbearer
Kennedy’s selection follows a decorated career that began at the Gold Coast 2018 Games, where she secured a bronze medal in the pole vault. Since that debut, the Australian record holder has claimed gold medals at the Commonwealth Games, World Championships, and the Olympic Games. According to the athlete, the role is a humbling responsibility given the depth of talent within the Australian squad.
“This role could have been given to absolutely anyone,” Kennedy said. “This team is so strong and there are so many deserving athletes that this could have gone to.”
Did you know?
Nina Kennedy is the fourth Australian track and field athlete to be selected as a Commonwealth Games flagbearer. She will be joined at the Opening Ceremony by Para swimmer Tim Hodge, who has been appointed as the nation’s King’s Baton bearer.
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“In the midst of my career, it’s so easy not to appreciate amazing experiences like this,” Kennedy stated. She highlighted that reaching a stage of maturity has allowed her to better value the fleeting nature of professional sport. The women’s pole vault competition is scheduled for 31 July.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Australian flagbearer for the 2026 Commonwealth Games?
Nina Kennedy, the reigning Commonwealth and Olympic pole vault champion, has been selected as the flagbearer.
When does the pole vault competition take place?
The women’s pole vault event is scheduled for 31 July during the Glasgow Games.
Who is the King’s Baton bearer for Australia?
Para swimmer Tim Hodge has been selected to serve as the nation’s King’s Baton bearer.
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