Dorian Foulon Shines at the 2024 Paralympic Games
Dorian Foulon, a para-cyclist from France, made headlines on Saturday, August 31, during the 2024 Paralympic Games held at the Vélodrome in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines. Competing in the 4,000m individual pursuit in the C5 category, Foulon not only clinched his second Paralympic title but also shattered his own world record with a remarkable time of 4′139′'34 during the qualifications. This victory came just a day after compatriot Alexandre Léauté won gold, marking a significant achievement for the French cycling team.
Foulon, who was born with a club foot, faced fierce competition but proved his mettle by defeating Yehor Dementyev from Ukraine. Overwhelmed with emotion on the podium while the French national anthem played, Foulon reflected on the significance of competing in his home country, stating, "Experiencing the Games in France is an incredible opportunity... I dreamed of it so much."
A Day of Triumph for French Athletes
The success didn’t stop with Foulon. The French team celebrated a total of eight medals on Saturday, including a bronze from Alexandre Léauté in the 1,000m multi-category time trial. The para-cycling team continued to impress, with Gatien Le Rousseau also securing bronze in the 4,000m individual pursuit (C4 category). The para-table tennis team contributed to the medal tally with two additional bronze medals, bringing the French delegation’s total to three for the day.
In para-athletics, Antoine Praud made history by winning bronze in the 1,500m T46, marking the first medal for the French para-athletics team in these Games. The day concluded with a heartwarming moment as the Portal brothers both reached the podium in the 400m freestyle, showcasing the strength of French swimming.
However, not all was smooth sailing for the French teams, as the sitting volleyball team faced elimination after losses to Egypt and Kazakhstan. The wheelchair rugby team also suffered a narrow defeat to Great Britain, ending their hopes for a medal.
As the 2024 Paralympic Games continue, French athletes are poised for more competitions, including the much-anticipated para-triathlon and events featuring legends like Pierre Fairbank. The excitement builds as fans eagerly await the next round of performances from their favorite athletes.
