This past Monday, the Olympic Flame journeyed through Val-de-Marne, culminating a week rich in emotion and celebration. This sixty-third stage of the Torch Relay highlighted the department’s unique blend of urban and natural environments, starting at Orly Airport and concluding in Créteil. Nearly 200 torchbearers, including notable athletes Estelle Mossely, Jason Lamy-Chappuis, and Didier Dinard, took turns carrying the Flame. The grand finale saw handball legend Nedim Remili light the cauldron at the celebration site in Créteil.
A Scenic Journey from Orly to Créteil
Val-de-Marne, known as the “water department” due to its 37 municipalities bordered by waterways, provided a picturesque route for the Flame. Beginning early in the morning at Orly Airport, a gateway for international visitors, the Flame made its way to Ormesson-sur-Marne, visiting the historic Château d’Ormesson and Champigny station. The journey continued through the Rungis International Market, the world’s largest fresh produce market, and showcased landmarks in Vincennes, Villejuif, and Vitry-sur-Seine.
The day concluded in Créteil, where the Flame traveled along the lake, the Maison des Arts et de la Culture, and the Maison du Handball before reaching the Dominique Duvauchelle sports park. The Official Sponsors of the Relay, Coca-Cola, Caisse d’Epargne, and Banque Populaire, engaged the public with their stands throughout the event.
Rowing and Handball Relays Highlight Athletic Excellence
Two collective relays marked the day, celebrating rowing and handball. The French Rowing Federation organized the first relay between Nogent-sur-Marne and Joinville-le-Pont, led by Olympic champion Jean-Christophe Rolland. Esteemed rowers such as Jérémie Azou and Paralympic athletes like Stéphane Tardieu participated, along with rising stars like Camille Leclerc.
In Créteil, the French Handball Federation’s relay took place near the celebration site, emphasizing the sport’s regional dynamism. Mathieu de Cillia, a wheelchair handball team member, captained the relay, joined by passionate players and volunteers who contribute significantly to the sport.
Celebrating Athletic Achievements and Inspirational Stories
Throughout the day, over 200 torchbearers, including athletes who have excelled in their fields, carried the Flame. Jason Lamy-Chappuis, the Olympic Nordic combined champion, started the relay at Orly Airport. Other participants included boxer Estelle Mossely, karateka Aurore Bourgeois, and taekwondo athlete Clara Mallien. Handball stars Didier Dinart and Nedim Remili also played prominent roles, with Remili lighting the cauldron in Créteil.
The event also honored anonymous individuals who embody the values of Olympism. Notable figures included chef Guillaume Gomez, singer-songwriter Gauvain Sers, and many dedicated volunteers and educators who inspire through their commitment to sports and community.
Looking Ahead: The Olympic Flame Continues to Essonne
The Torch Relay continues its journey tomorrow in Essonne, a region known for its research centers, universities, and historical heritage. The Flame will start in Étampes, pass through Marcoussis for a collective relay, and end the day in Évry-Courcouronnes with another celebration site event.
Photo credit: Paris 2024 / Cédric Bufkens / SIPA PRESS
PROGRAMME FOR MONDAY, JULY 22: Find the full program for the stage at Olympic Torch Relay – Essonne.
Celebrate the Olympic spirit and follow the journey of the Flame as it continues to inspire communities across France!
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