Nanjing, China, August 17, 2014 - Eight Beach Volleyball athletes had the honor of carrying the flag of their country at the Parade of Nations during the Opening Ceremony of the Nanjing 2014 Youth Olympic Games.

The eight athletes were:

Finland: Santeri Siren
Germany: Lisa Arnholdt
Indonesia: Rendy Vedian Licardo
Rwanda: Seraphine Mukantambara
Saint Lucia: Diana Noel
St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Rodell Fraser
Tuvalu: Lolua Eti
Vanuatu: Loti Joe

All of the athletes that attended the Opening Ceremony were treated to a spectacular performance Saturday night at the Nanjing Olympic Sports Centre Stadium.

The ceremony featured everything athletes taking selfies with IOC President Thomas Bach to elaborate sets that told the story of Nanjing’s ancient scientific, artistic, cultural and commercial achievements. More than 4,000 performers who rehearsed six months together participated in the ceremony.  The highlight, of course, was the lighting of the Olympic cauldron.

A little bit of rain could not stop the successful Opening Ceremony.

“The rain actually added a romantic touch to the ceremony,” said Chen Weiya, the chief director of the Opening Ceremony.

For the athletes, the Opening Ceremony was a special moment, as they represented their country on an international stage.

“It’s hard to find the words to express it,” said France’s Arnaud Loiseau. “All my friends and family are behind me.”

The Opening Ceremony was televised around the world.

“Perhaps my family saw me at home,” said Germany’s Niklas Rudolf.