19th Century Sailing Ship Delivers Paris 2024 Olympic Flame To Marseille, France

The Olympic flame for Paris 2024 has arrived in Marseille, beginning a series of ceremonies, including the Olympic Torch Relay.

The flame departed from the Greek port of Piraeus on April 27th and arrived in Marseille on May 8th aboard the iconic three-masted Belem.

Thousands of onlookers gathered around the city’s Old Port to welcome its arrival.

Florent Manaudou, an Olympic champion, led the parade and became the first torchbearer on French soil.

Jul, a local rapper, then lit the Olympic Torch Relay cauldron, igniting the crowd’s applauding and excitement.

The Belem’s arrival in Marseille’s northern harbor was impressive. It was followed by a flotilla of 1,024 local boats.

On land, the crowd enjoyed performances by the Marseille ballet company at the Château d’If.

The Patrouille de France flew overhead, painting the sky with magnificent aerobatics, including the Olympic rings.

The Olympic Flame has officially arrived in Marseille!

The event was definitely one to watch from fireworks, performances, and more!

Check out the replay to relive the action https://t.co/FPiIo4Xoi2#OlympicTorchRelay #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/HWFiMVVf5B

— The Olympic Games (@Olympics) May 8, 2024

Video Credits: The Olympic Games/Twitter

Etienne, Albane, Julie, and Anne-Dominique, who had traveled from Beaujolais to see the historic event, were among the thrilled spectators.

Adrien, a recent immigrant in Marseille, described the parade as “majestic and moving,” highlighting the necessity of bringing people together to celebrate Olympic values.

Before the Belem docked in the Old Port, French artist Naestro performed La Marseillaise, followed by the premiere of Victor le Masne’s composition of Paris 2024’s official musical anthem, Parade.

Florent Manaudou brought the flame ashore, passing it to Paralympian Nantenin Keita and finally to local rapper Jul, who lit the Olympic cauldron.

Thousands of enthusiastic audiences, including French President Emmanuel Macron, witnessed the historic event.

The Olympic Torch Relay will begin on May 9th in Marseille and will feature prominent athletes such as Tony Parker, Didier Drogba, and Denis Gargaud Chanut.

This is what 10 days at sea looks like with the precious cargo that is the Olympic flame.

Come behind the scenes on the Belem, the 19th-century ship that has carried the flame from Greece to France. #OlympicTorchRelay | #Paris2024 | @Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/9MmlV3xY0i

— The Olympic Games (@Olympics) May 8, 2024

Video Credits: The Olympic Games/Twitter

This relay marks the beginning of a 69-day journey across France and its overseas territories.

It will pass through over 450 towns and cities before arriving in Paris on July 26th for the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

The arrival of the Olympic flame in Marseille marks the commencement of the Games and exemplifies the Olympic spirit of unity and celebration.

As the torch travels across France, it will convey the expectation and excitement of millions, commemorating the Games’ return to French land after a century.

But, despite the festivities, security remains the top priority, with France on high alert following recent terrorist threats.

Around 6,000 law enforcement personnel were deployed in Marseille for the flame’s arrival, assuring the safety of both spectators and participants during the relay.

The torch’s voyage will highlight France’s beauty and diversity and honour the country’s rich cultural legacy, which has inspired generations.

From ancient caverns to modern stadiums, the Olympic flame will transport the Games’ heritage throughout the country, reminding us of the sport’s eternal power to unite and inspire.

Reference: Olympics

19th Century Sailing Ship Delivers Paris 2024 Olympic Flame To Marseille, France appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News