"This is the first time we have a Polish House. I thank everyone who contributed to this special place, where the history of Polish sports and the Polish Olympic movement will be showcased," said President Duda, who flew to the French capital on Thursday.
He reminded the attendees that Poland won its first Olympic medals 100 years ago in Paris, and noted that the country currently has 298 medals.
"I hope, and I am convinced, that we will win more than three medals to surpass the 300 mark. I wish every athlete to stand on the podium, especially on the highest step, to experience that incredible moment when we hear 'Mazurek Dąbrowskiego' [Poland's national anthem]," Duda remarked.
During the official opening, some athletes took their Olympic oaths, including three-time gold medalist hammer thrower Anita Włodarczyk. In the evening, she will serve as a flag bearer alongside 3x3 basketball player Przemysław Zamojski during the opening ceremony on the Seine.
Team Poland
A total of 210 Polish athletes, 97 men and 103 women, are set to compete in the Paris Games, which open on Friday at 7:30 pm.
Poland will be represented by athletes competing in 22 Olympic sports, including more than 60 track-and-field contestants and 20 swimmers.
The Polish Olympic team also includes a contingent of more than 200 coaches, doctors, physiotherapists and other personnel.
The Paris Olympics begin on Friday and run through to August 11.
(jh)
Source: IAR
