Amid the excitement leading up to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the Paralympic Torch Relay has captured the hearts of the nation. On August 26, 2024, the torch embarked on a journey that not only illuminates the path to the games but also celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of France.
A Route Through the Heart of French Regions
The torch’s journey began in Northern France, where it lit up iconic locations like Arras, Amiens, and Chambly. These towns, known for their historical and cultural significance, were a fitting start to the relay.
Highlights of the Route:
- Arras: Grand Place in Pas-de-Calais
- Amiens: The “Little Venice of the North”
- Chambly: Sportiest town in Picardy
The torch then ventured eastward, lighting up Châlons-en-Champagne, Troyes, and Lyon, bringing the Paralympic spirit to these vibrant communities.
Celebrating Para-Sport Through Team Relays
A unique aspect of this relay is the inclusion of team relays, organized in collaboration with the French Paralympic and Sports Committee. These relays have shone a spotlight on the inspiring stories of volunteers, athletes, and innovators who have made significant contributions to para-sport.
The Volunteer Tribute in Chambly
In Chambly, the first team relay was a tribute to the volunteers who have tirelessly supported the Paralympic movement. Led by the dynamic mother-daughter duo, Elisabeth and Melissa Genix Ollier, the relay highlighted their remarkable journey.
Their Achievements:
- Raised awareness for caregivers
- Pedaled 300 km on a tandem bicycle for charity
- Advocated for individuals with diminished autonomy
Inspiring Innovators in Vichy
In Vichy, another relay celebrated game-changers in the world of para-sport. These individuals have made significant strides in enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in sports.
Innovators Featured:
- Pierre-Emmanuel Baruch: Director of DALHIR, working for social integration
- Patrice Faucogney: Creator of all-terrain wheelchairs
- Hicham Ousseni: Developed an inclusive sports and nutrition app
- Laure Gabin: Designer of adaptive skis
Celebrity Torchbearers: A Celebration of Sport
Throughout the relay, 403 torchbearers, including prominent sport and para-sport icons, carried the flame, symbolizing the unity and anticipation for the upcoming Games.
Notable Torchbearers:
- Philippe Ermenault: Olympic track cycling champion in Amiens
- Madeleine Malonga: Tokyo 2020 judo silver medallist in Chambly
- Assia El Hannouni: Eight-time Paralympic athletics champion in Lyon
- Karl Vergnaud: 24-time French para-archery champion in Lyon
Notable Relay Stops and Their Significance
Location |
Significance |
Torchbearer |
|---|---|---|
| Arras, Pas-de-Calais | Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site | Philippe Ermenault |
| Chambly, Oise | Sportiest town in Picardy | Madeleine Malonga |
| Lyon, Rhône | Place Bellecour, the heart of the city | Assia El Hannouni, Karl Vergnaud |
| Vichy, Allier | Historic spa town known for its therapeutic waters | Guy Tisserant |
| Limoges, Haute-Vienne | Renowned for its porcelain and arts | Gérard Masson, Richard Dacoury |
Lighting the Cauldrons
As the torch made its way through France, the lighting of cauldrons marked the culmination of each day’s journey. These ceremonies paid tribute to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their communities.
Heroes Honoured:
- Nicole Jesupret: A primary school teacher and advocate for youth in Chambly
- Alexis Guinet: Professional firefighter supporting war-wounded through sport in Laon
- Michel Sorine: Founder of France’s first gym for people with motor disabilities in Lyon
- Marilyn Ferrier: Sports educator specialising in para-sport in Vichy
A Final Day to Remember
Tomorrow, the torch relay will continue its journey through 21 towns and cities in Île-de-France, concluding with a grand celebration at Prisme in Bobigny. Sponsored by Coca-Cola, the concert will mark the final leg of this inspiring journey, as the torch nears its destination in Paris.
What to Expect:
- The torch will visit iconic locations in Île-de-France.
- A concert at Prisme in Bobigny will celebrate the torch’s journey.
- Anticipation builds as the Paralympic Games draw near.
The Paralympic Torch Relay has not only ignited the flames for the upcoming Games but also kindled a spirit of unity and resilience across France.
As the torch continues its journey, it carries with it the hopes and dreams of countless individuals, bringing the nation together in the spirit of the Paralympic Games. See the games map and explore the route.
Sources: THX News & Paris 2024 Paralympics.
