Celebration of Unity and Inspiration at the 2024 Paris Paralympics Opening Ceremony
The celebrated opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Paralympics unfolded yesterday at the iconic Place de la Concorde, marking a momentous occasion for the French delegation. Flag bearers Nantenin Keita and Alexis Hanquinquant relished an unforgettable evening filled with vibrant energy and profound camaraderie among their team.
Nantenin Keita, a distinguished sprinter and flag bearer, conveyed her exhilaration stating, “We just experienced an extraordinary evening, and we truly felt the positive energy surrounding us. We were privileged to engage closely with the community, sharing hugs and handshakes.”
Alexis Hanquinquant, who competes in Para triathlon and serves as co-flag bearer, humorously noted that he lost his voice from singing enthusiastically alongside his team. He remarked, “This was a splendid way to commence the Paralympics, and now we eagerly anticipate the commencement of the Games!”
Both athletes were honored to be among five distinguished Para athletes chosen to ignite the Paralympic cauldron, joining the ranks of gold medalists Charles-Antoine Kouakou, Elodie Lorandi, and Fabien Lamirault in this prestigious ceremony.
Reflecting on the moment, Keita expressed her astonishment at being invited to light the cauldron, reminiscing, “When Tony Estanguet contacted me to be one of the last individuals to hold the torch, I could scarcely believe it! As I lit the cauldron, I recalled the presence of Marie-José Perec and Teddy Riner just three weeks prior; it was truly magical and vital that all disabilities were represented.”
Hanquinquant echoed this sentiment with gratitude, stating, “The selection to light the cauldron was an incredible surprise for me. I am deeply honored and wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved.”
The enthusiasm expressed by Keita and Hanquinquant embodies the spirit of the Paralympics, celebrating resilience, unity, and inspiration as the Games commence in Paris.
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