Third Day Highlights: Excitement and Connection at the Paris 2024 Paralympics
On the third day of the Paris 2024 Paralympics at the Paris Sud Arena, spectators gathered in vibrant numbers to witness thrilling competitions in Boccia, Para Table Tennis, and Goalball. The collective enthusiasm from the crowd was palpable, energizing the athletes and bringing the arena to life.
Since the commencement of the Paris 2024 Paralympics, the atmosphere at the Paris Sud Arena has been electric, particularly as three sports showcased their unique talents. On this first weekend, by 9:30 AM, Building 6 was nearing capacity for a men’s Goalball group match where Egypt faced China. The match concluded with China securing a victory at 7-4, accompanied by resounding cheers from the crowd that resonated with each play.
The Para Table Tennis matches commenced shortly thereafter, revealing crowd favorites almost immediately. Notably, the Ukrainian duo of Viktor Didukh and Iryna Shynkarova clashed with China’s Zhao Shuai and Mao Jingdian in the XD17 semifinals. This thrilling encounter, marked by a nail-biting conclusion, saw the Chinese athletes emerging victorious in the fifth game, prompting a standing ovation from the arena.
Viktor Didukh expressed his profound appreciation for the crowd’s support, stating, “The energy was unbelievable; I have never played in front of so many people before.”
Attendee Didier, who traveled from Brittany, shared his profound excitement: “We purchased our tickets a year ago. My wife and I are set to enjoy Para Table Tennis, Para Triathlon, and Para Athletics. It is going to be an amazing experience!”
In the subsequent session, two French pairs vied for spots in the finals: Clément Berthier and Esteban Herrault in the MD14 category, and Florian Merrien and Flora Vautier in XD7. Their dedicated fans merged efforts to create an entrance resembling a rock star welcome, their exuberance nearly overpowering the announcer’s voice. Esteban Herrault shared his sentiments, stating, “I believe this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It feels peculiar to perform in this venue since I also work here in security.”
Although both French pairs did not advance, the day’s events continued with the French men’s Goalball team taking to the court to confront the United States, striving to avoid a last-place finish in Group A. Thomas Ramos-Martins, wearing the number 4, became one of the standout players, actively engaging the audience and inciting them to cheer with his animated gestures. Nabil Baich, number 3 for the French team remarked following the match, “These bursts of energy from the crowd truly elevate our game; when the noise subsides, it is merely us, the ball, and our challengers.”
Despite the fervent support and a last-minute scoring effort from Elias Ouni, the French team narrowly lost with a final score of 5-4, preparing to face the top team from Group B in the quarter-finals.
On the women’s side, the French Goalball team initiated their match strongly with Adelia Ajami scoring the first-ever goal of the French women in Paralympic history within the first minute of play. “I could not believe it when my teammate informed me of my goal,” Ajami confessed. However, the Korean squad subsequently dominated the game, concluding with a 6-1 victory. The French women must now secure a win in their final match against Japan to avoid last place in Group D.
Throughout the day, Boccia also captured the audience’s attention at Arena Paris Sud 1. Paul, an attendee from Lyon, remarked, “It is a sport I was unfamiliar with, but it is quite engaging and easy to follow. With the Discovery Pass, we have found ourselves appreciating these unique events even more.”
Among the competitors, Sonia Heckel represented France in the BC3 category but faced elimination in the group stage following her defeat by Thailand’s Ladamanee Kla-Han. Despite her disappointment, she commented on the incredible support of the crowd, stating, “The atmosphere provided me with a significant boost; I only wish I could have enjoyed it longer.”
In a brighter moment for French athletes, Jules Menard successfully advanced to the knockout rounds after defeating Japan’s Masayuki Arita, attributing his success to the enthusiastic crowd. “I wish to express my gratitude to the audience for such an incredible atmosphere; there is no better setting for a Boccia match,” Menard concluded.
The events at the Paris Sud Arena continue to illustrate the passion and spirit of the Paralympic Games, supporting the athletes in their impressive displays of skill and resilience while forging a lasting connection with the crowd.
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