Strafford’s Nick Mead, who was part of the U.S. Rowing team that won the nation’s first gold in the men’s fours since 1960, will be one of the flag bearers for Team USA at the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics, writes Gabriela Carroll for The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

The rower got the news from his teammate, Kennett Square native Justin Best, who surprised him with the announcement at breakfast. 

“Try to represent rowing as best as possible,” Mead said. “I think first step: get a haircut.” 

The Episcopal Academy alumnus is the first rower to be Team USA’s flag bearer at the Olympic Games in the opening or closing ceremony. 

He will join swimming icon Katie Ledecky, who won four medals at this year’s games, including two golds. This makes Ledecky the most decorated American woman in any Olympic sport as well as the most decorated woman in swimming of all time. 

Mead and Ledecky were selected to be flag bearers after a vote by their peers. 

The closing ceremony will take place on Sunday. 

Read more about Nick Mead taking part in the closing ceremony in The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

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