Torrential showers continued unabated but it did not matter to the athletes who sported translucent raincoats with several of them singing, dancing and taking selfies during the nearly three-hour-long closing ceremony. Photo: ReutersRio de Janeiro: Rains failed to dampen the famous Rio carnival spirit as this Brazilian city bid an emotional farewell to thousands of athletes of the world in a colourful closing ceremony to bring down curtains on the 31st Olympic Games here. This was after the Olympic flag was lowered and handed over to the representative of Tokyo 2020, the next host of the Games. The athletes braved harsh winter winds, accompanied by torrential showers, and enjoyed the festive atmosphere after intense competition in their respective events ended. Also Read: Rio Olympics: The top 10 momentsTorrential showers continued unabated but it did not matter to the athletes who sported translucent raincoats with several of them singing, dancing and taking selfies during the nearly three-hour-long closing ceremony.

Source: Mint August 22, 2016 03:00 UTC