XXVIII Olympic Games in Athens, Greece-Seychelles delegation welcomed into Olympic village |14 August 2004

Apart from weightlifter, Richard Scheer, who only arrived in Athens on Thursday evening, and France-based athlete Céline Laporte, expected in the Greek capital tomorrow, all other athletes of the Seychelles delegation and officials, including Seychelles National Olympic Committee president Antonio Gopal participated.

Olympic village mayor Ioannis Manos, also a member of the Games organising committee (Athoc), welcomed the Seychelles delegation to Athens "where all nations have gathered to celebrate the Olympic values."

"The Olympic village has opened its door, to you all and I appreciate your participation," he added.

Before the country's national anthem – Koste Seselwa – was played and the Seychelles flag raised to the sky, swimmer and Sportslady  of the Year, Shrone Austin presented Olympic village mayor Manos with a coco-de-mer.

Then chef de mission Ivan Roberts received a token of the Greek hospitality from the hands of the mayor.

Athletes and officials from another four countries Czech Republic, Grenada, Suriname and Georgia – were welcomed during  the same ceremony.

A cultural programme lasting five minutes followed and then those present were invited for a reception.