Raed Ahmed

About

Iraqi weightlifter known for being a flagbearer during the opening ceremonies in the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. After finishing his event, he defected to the United States. 

Before Fame

He became the Iraqi champion of weightlifting in the 99kg weight class in 1984. Uday Hussain, brother of Saddam Hussein, was appointed chairman of the Iraqi Olympic Committee and was known for torturing athletes after failure. 

Trivia

He has worked as a used car salesman and football and basketball coach since his defection. 

Family Life

He was born in Basra, Iraq. His wife was evacuated days before his defection. His mother was fired and his family was held in detention. He has five children living in Dearborn, Michigan. 

Associated With

He decided to defect after seeing President Bill Clinton clap for the Iraqi delegation. He had been ordered not to look at Clinton but defied orders.