Yusra Mardini, a swimmer who fled Syria's war, said that the entire refugee team was elated to be in Rio. Members of the first-ever Olympic refugee team visited Rio de Janeiro's iconic Christ statue Saturday, with smiles as wide as their arms were outstretched, imitating the landmark's open embrace as they posed for photos. Another South Sudanese track athlete, Rose Nathike Lokonyen, who will compete in the 800 meter run, said the entire team was surprised to be taking part in the Games. The team of six men and four women includes five athletes from South Sudan, two from Syria, two from Democratic Republic of Congo and one from Ethiopia. "In our lifetime we never thought that running could be something that can have a benefit," she said.

Source: dna July 31, 2016 03:17 UTC