Gary Player - 80 and going strong

Cape Town - Gary Player, South Africa's greatest ever sportsman, is at the Rio Olympics as captain of the mens and womens golf teams.

Player, who turns 81 on November 1, spoke of the "spectacular and world class event" that was the opening ceremony.

Players added that entering the Maracanã stadium third out of more than 200 countries sent shivers down his spine, saying he had not felt that proud being a South African for many years.

Here's hoping that Player's aura will rub off on the four SA golfers in action - Jaco van Zyl and Brandon Stone on the men's side, and Ashleigh Simon and Paula Reto on the ladies.

Enjoying my Olympic Village experience w/ all the athletes. Rio has been incredible. Just 2 days until @OlympicGolf! pic.twitter.com/vkpMZwx8zD

— Gary Player (@garyplayer) August 9, 2016

SA golfing legend @garyplayer honoured @teamsa16 Sevens team by handing over their match-jerseys. Pic: @wernerkok1 pic.twitter.com/eLOfKi29xB

— 7s in South Africa (@BlitzBokke) August 9, 2016

Fantastic meeting Gary Player today . A true gentleman pic.twitter.com/vDqRXSGVFd

— Daryl Impey (@darylimpey) August 7, 2016

Fulfilling a lifelong dream tonight walking into the stadium with the world's best athletes behind the ????. @Olympics let the games begin!!

— Gary Player (@garyplayer) August 5, 2016

Humbled to have spent time with Mr @garyplayer ???? Honour to be in his presence. Thanks for joining us for lunch pic.twitter.com/t0KLrnFh71

— Francois Hougaard (@Francoishougi) August 5, 2016