The Debut of Breaking at the 2024 Paris Olympics
The highly anticipated debut of Breaking at the Paris Olympics has arrived, and it is poised to deliver a spectacle of DJ decks, intricate footwork, and unprecedented performances. Breaking, also referred to as breakdancing, is set to commence at the Parc Urbain on July 9th at 4 PM.
Despite originating in New York during the 1970s, Breaking has attracted competitors from over ten countries, including China, India, Ukraine, Japan, the Netherlands, and South Korea, making it a truly international event. The sport boasts a rich cultural history, and its inclusion in the Olympics aims to pay tribute to and preserve its authenticity.
Emerging from the block parties of New York, Breaking gained widespread popularity in the 1980s, with groups such as the Rock Steady Crew and the New York City Breakers pioneering the moves that will be on display at the Olympics. The techniques of Breaking encompass standing footwork, known as top rock, floor movements called down rock, and astonishing maneuvers such as power moves and freezes, including the iconic ‘baby freeze’.
The incorporation of Breaking as an Olympic sport is a testament to the International Olympic Committee’s endeavor to cater to a diverse audience, including the youth. The sport’s appeal was evident during its debut at the 2018 Summer Youth Olympic Games in Argentina, where it garnered over 1 million viewers, showcasing its broad appeal.
The official addition of Breaking to the 2024 Olympic program on December 7, 2021, confirms its standing as a legitimate Olympic sport. The International Olympic Committee’s dedication to incorporating popular sports for all age groups has led to the inclusion of skateboarding, sport climbing, and surfing in recent years, with Breaking seamlessly aligning with this trend.
As the two-day Breaking competition unfolds at the Paris Olympics, spectators can look forward to witnessing exhilarating performances, awe-inspiring moves, and a celebration of the art and culture of Breaking. This historic moment marks the culmination of years of dedication and passion from Breaking enthusiasts worldwide as the sport rightfully claims its place on the world’s grandest sporting stage.
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