With the Melbourne Games action now in full swing, cyclist Sam Firby said today that his thoughts and heart were still with the family of former cycling team manager Tony Richomme, who died suddenly last month.
As a mark of respect, the entire Jersey team of 50 competitors and officials chose to wear black ribbons on the lapels of their red blazers.
Firby and new team manager Toby Aubert wore black armbands and dedicated their presence at the ceremony to Mr Richomme.
‘Obviously it was a spectacular event and something I’ll never forget, but it was sad for me because Tony should have been there with me,’ said Firby.
‘But I think our mark of respect meant that in some way he was able to take part in the opening ceremony.
I was very pleased and proud to be carrying the flag for Jersey.’ Education, Sports and Culture Minister Mike Vibert said that Jersey were the best-dressed team in the arena.
‘I was watching from the stands and boy, did they look good,’ he said.
‘Their red uniforms were brilliantly finished off with the Panama hats.
It was a proud moment to see them marching into the stadium like that.’ l On day one of the event Jersey competitors were involved in badminton, bowls and swimming – see pages 54-56.
