The opening ceremonies of the Olympics have been a testament to the most iconic moments witnessed by the world! Be it the emblematic moment back in the 2000s when Cathy Freeman was seen lighting the Sydney Olympic Games, or the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, where Mohammad Ali carried the torch, or the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where 2008 musicians played fou in coordination – Olympic opening ceremonies seamlessly blend tradition and technology. However, this year’s Paris Olympics season will stand out from all of its predecessors.
Unlike the other Olympic seasons, the 2024 Paris Olympics have already started to unfold momentous surprises. The opening ceremony, for the first time in the history of the Summer Olympics, will take place outside the stadium, with athletes reveling on boats. But ahead of this upcoming gala, continuing the tapestry of historic moments, the Paris Olympic ceremony witnessed yet another wholesome one!
Landmark lead-up to the Paris Olympics!
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The Paris Olympics has been one of the most anticipated time for the sports industry and fandom. One such iconic moment took center stage all over the internet, where French Paralympian Kevin Piette was seen marching with an Olympic torch. Piette wore an exoskeleton and a contagious smile, demonstrating his unwavering determination and modest ambition to inspire the world of sports. The people were brimming with energy and love for the para-athlete, bolstering him.
Kevin Piette, paraplegic since an accident, made history today by carrying the Olympic flame with his exoskeleton! 💪
— Kevin W. (@Brink_Thinker) July 23, 2024
Eleven years ago, a devastating road accident left Kevin unable to walk. However, his unwavering spirit and love for sports led him on an extraordinary journey. Transitioning to para-athletics, he embraced a new challenge as a ‘pilot’ for a groundbreaking robotic exoskeleton. Kevin’s invaluable contributions as an early tester have propelled this innovative technology forward, showcasing its potential in empowering individuals with mobility impairments. He actively participates in ‘cybathlons,’ events that celebrate the remarkable capabilities of assistive technologies, inspiring others to overcome obstacles and pursue their passions. And in them sings the spirit of the Olympics, embodied by individuals like Kevin, shining brightly in Paris, where another icon awaits.
The rapper who will be the final leg of the torch relay
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Singer-rapper Snoop Dogg’s connection to the Summer Olympics 2024 was already anticipated. Even though he is not the final torchbearer, he has an active personality that has been making headlines during the season. Be it the Noah Lyles moment at the trials where the two had a dapper walk to the hall or now being announced as the final torch bearer, he is all ready for Paris! Snoop Dogg will be seen carrying the torch from the neighborhoods of Saint-Denis to the northern Paris suburbs before it reaches its final destination, the Eiffel Tower, as confirmed by the mayor.
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On July 23rd, the 52-year-old rapper took to Instagram to announce his exciting role in the Paris Olympics, captioning his post, “U gots to do it!! US (for real) Will u be watchin??” Following his leg of the torch relay, the Saint-Denis mayor, Mathieu Hanotin, confirmed a special concert by French Eurovision star Slimane will take place in front of the Basilica Cathedral, marking the final stop before the torch reaches the iconic Eiffel Tower. The anticipation is building for what promises to be a unique and memorable Olympic season in Paris. Share your thoughts and excitement in the comments below!
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