Olympic Flame Lights Up Essonne: Highlights from the July 22 Torch Relay
This Monday, July 22, the Olympic Flame continued its final week of the journey through Essonne, bringing excitement and celebration to the region. From Étampes to Évry-Courcouronnes, nearly 160 torchbearers carried the flame, including notable figures such as bronze medalist Daniel Sangouma, rugby player Julien Pierre, and artist Richard Orlinski. The day culminated with Ladji Doucouré, world champion hurdler, lighting the cauldron at the celebration site in Évry-Courcouronnes.
A Journey Through the Heart of Essonne: From Étampes to Évry-Courcouronnes
Essonne, known for its blend of urban dynamism and natural beauty, provided a picturesque backdrop for the Olympic Flame. The journey began in Étampes, a historic town with 26 listed monuments. The flame visited the leisure island, a popular spot for locals, before moving to Chamarande, home to the largest public garden in Essonne and a 17th-century castle.
The relay continued through Palaiseau and Massy, showcasing landmarks like the Tuilerie Park and the Opera House. In the afternoon, the flame reached Marcoussis, the National Rugby Centre, before heading to Draveil, where it took a scenic boat ride on the Seine. The flame’s journey included stops at Saint-Rémy church in Vigneux-sur-Seine, the fortified castle in Dourdan, and concluded in Évry-Courcouronnes, passing key sites such as the Genopole and Place des Droits de l’Homme before arriving at the Robert-Bobin stadium.
Celebrating Rugby in Marcoussis
Rugby enthusiasts were thrilled by the collective relay in Marcoussis, led by Jean-Charles Mascetti of the Ile-de-France Regional League. The relay featured prominent figures such as referee Doriane Domenjo, rugby 7s player Lina Guerin, and former international Jessy Trémoulière. Environmental advocate and former French team player Julien Pierre, along with bronze medalist Daniel Sangouma, also participated.
Fervor Fueled by 160 Torchbearers
Throughout the day, 160 torchbearers carried the Olympic Flame, each contributing to the celebration. Highlights included freestyle basketball world champion Brisco, TV presenter Ophélie Meunier, and sculptor Richard Orlinski. The day’s final torchbearer, Ladji Doucouré, lit the cauldron, marking a memorable end to the relay.
Local athletes, including swimmers Marie-Océane Colombani and Benjamin Yonnet, and judoka Maxence Castagnol, joined the relay, representing the vibrant sports community in Essonne.
Looking Ahead: The Flame’s Journey Continues
As the Olympic Flame moves to Yvelines tomorrow, it will pass through notable locations like Rambouillet, Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, and Versailles. The journey promises to bring more excitement and anticipation as the countdown to the Olympic Games continues.
Photo credit: Paris 2024 / Alexis Goudeau / SIPA PRESS
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