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BOA official Dick Palmer carries the Olympic flag for Great Britain during the Opening Ceremony of the 1980 Moscow Olympics
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BOA official Dick Palmer carries the Olympic flag for Great Britain during the Opening Ceremony of the 1980 Moscow Olympics
Athletics - 1980 Moscow Olympics - Opening Ceremony
British Olympic Association (BOA) General Secretary Dick Palmer carries the Olympic flag for Great Britain in the Grand Arena of the Central Lenin Stadium, Moscow, USSR.
No British athletes took part and the Union Jack was not used in the ceremony in acknowledgment of the American-led boycott of the Games by 65 countries in response to the 1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan
Colorsport Images are an ever-expanding library providing extensive coverage of all aspects of sport including Olympics since 1972 and football since 1881
Media ID 5868938
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photo print, we witness a significant moment in Olympic history as BOA official Dick Palmer carries the Olympic flag for Great Britain during the Opening Ceremony of the 1980 Moscow Olympics. The image captures Palmer's determined stride and proud demeanor as he represents his nation amidst a politically charged atmosphere. The Grand Arena of the Central Lenin Stadium in Moscow serves as the backdrop, its vastness emphasizing the magnitude of this occasion. However, what makes this particular ceremony unique is that no British athletes participated and the Union Jack was notably absent from display. This deliberate omission symbolizes solidarity with 65 countries who boycotted these Games in response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. Palmer's presence becomes even more poignant when considering his role within an event marred by controversy and geopolitical tensions. As General Secretary of the British Olympic Association (BOA), he assumes responsibility for upholding national pride while respecting international concerns. Colorsport photographer Andrew Cowie masterfully captures this historic moment, freezing it in time for future generations to reflect upon. Through his lens, we are reminded not only of Palmer's unwavering dedication but also of how sport can become entangled with global affairs. This powerful image stands as a testament to both individual resilience and collective action—a reminder that even amid adversity, symbols like flags can carry profound meaning beyond their physical representation.
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