The Olympics are officially underway in Italy, with the opening ceremonies kicking off Friday.
One of Team USA’s two flag bearers has a special connection to Maine.
He’s a Mainer himself and his parents own a restaurant in Newry.
Frank’s Bar and Grill is owned by Frankie Del Duca’s parents. He is one of two U.S. flag bearers and a member of the U.S. Olympic Bobsled Team.
Frankie’s parents, Frank and Carole, say they always knew their son was special, even from a young age.
“He was always an athlete as a little boy growing up, he was always competitive and he always worked very hard,” father Frank Del Duca said.
A few days ago, they found out the 34-year-old was chosen to carry the U.S. flag alongside speed skater Erin Jackson during Friday’s opening ceremonies in Milan.
Both athletes were selected for the honor by their fellow Team USA athletes.
Residents in the area say it’s a special time not only for Frankie’s family, but also for the community.
“I think it’s really cool for everyone to have come here in support of the event. We are all really excited to watch. I’m sure this is not the only place people are watching. They are going to be watching from their homes and other bars as well,” Newry resident Caraline Gray said.
Frankie didn’t even start bobsledding until he was 22 years old, that’s only 12 years ago.
He was encouraged by his former college track coach, who was also a member of the 2004 U.S. bobsled team, to try out the winter sport.
Now, he’s on one of the biggest stages in the world representing his country.
“He deserves it and Team USA especially deserves it. They are a full team and we are just rooting for them all,” mother Carole Del Duca said.
Frankie Del Duca will be racing as a pilot in both the two and four man bobsled events for Team USA starting on Feb. 16.