ATHENS (AP) -- Olympic windsurfing gold medallist Nikos Kaklamanakis will carry the Greek flag to lead the procession of countries at the Sydney Olympics next month.

 Greece, the birthplace of the ancient games, takes the first spot in the parade of countries at the opening ceremonies.

 "I didn't expect such a decision. It's a great honour for me," the Athens daily Ta Nea quoted Kaklamanakis as saying from Sydney.

 Kaklamanakis won the gold medal at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996. He is also the winner of 1999 and 2000 world championships in the Mistral class.