The French delegation shines on home soil

French athletes are making their country proud.Since Wednesday August 28, athletes have been racking up medal after medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.France’s first medal came from none other than cyclist Marie Patouillet. On Thursday August 29, the sportswoman won silver in the 500 m time trial category C4 and C5 in track cycling. Taking part in her last games, she then went on to win gold against the favorite Heïdi Gaugain on Sunday, September 1. Ugo Didier also made his mark on the first day of competition. Already a multi-medallist at the Tokyo Games, the swimmer won gold in the 400m freestyle in the S9 category. There was no question of him leaving without the grail either. Flag-bearer and torch-bearer Alexis Hanquinquant won gold in the PTS4 para-triathlon on Monday September 2. On the same day, Aurélie Aubert won the boccia final, clinching France’s first Paralympic title in this sport halfway between curling and pétanque. The result was a tremendous boost for this discipline, which has long remained in the shadows.

The public celebrates inclusion

Held for the first time in France, the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games are a great success.The atmosphere and the crowds are just right.As evidenced by the number of tickets sold.The competition is a unique opportunity to raise public awareness of disability and change attitudes, to contribute to a more inclusive society.By launching a silent wave so as not to disturb the cecifoot players, the public at the Tour Eiffel stadium delivered a powerful image of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

Next challenge: ensure that the public doesn’t wait for the Paralympic Games to applaud these champions.