Dale, who has been a member of the Bermuda Olympic Association (BOA) Board since 2008 and a vice-president since 2012, will also be tasked with ensuring that athletes have access to the resources and support they need at the Games.

Her 30-years’ experience in coaching, consulting and administrating make Dale the perfect candidate for the position, the BOA say.

“As a coach who has dedicated her time to a number of girls’ sports in Bermuda, and as a BOA executive and Board Member, Brenda is well known to our athletes as a friend, supporter and champion of their journeys,” said Judy Simons, BOA President.

“As an experienced administrator, she is well equipped to help our athletes navigate the hectic and sometimes challenging environment of a major international sporting festival.

“She is the right choice to lead the team, and I know they will be in good hands as they strive to deliver their best performances in Rio.”

Dale also worked as sports advisor for the Ministry of Youth and Sports from 1989 to 1994, while she served as the chairperson for the Government’s Women in Sport Committee between 2002 and 2005. 

Bermuda have already secured several places for their athletes at the Games, with Harold Houston and Tyrone Smith having claimed spots in the men’s 200 metres and long jump competitions, while laser radial sailor Cecilia Wollmann will also compete in Rio.

Triathlete Flora Duffy will aim to participate in a third straight Olympic Games, having become the first Bermudan to win a medal at the Pan American Games since 1999, when she won bronze at Toronto 2015.

“I am honoured to be Bermuda’s Chef de Mission for the Rio Games, I look forward to working with our athletes, their coaches and the rest of the team to show the world the amazing athletic talent we have in Bermuda,” said Dale.

“I feel that my background as a coach, and my experience in sport and public administration, as well as my involvement in the Olympic movement over the last eight years, has prepared me well for this challenge.”