The Olympic Flame's Historic Journey Through French Overseas Territories
For the first time ever, the Olympic torch relay has made its way through French overseas territories, starting with Guyana this Sunday. The remarkable landscapes of this South American region were showcased as the flame began its journey.
The relay kicked off in Camopi, deep in the Amazon, following a traditional Native American ceremony. The Olympic flame was then transported via canoe down the Oyapock River. Upon reaching Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, it passed through the Transportation camp, a historic monument that once served as a prison.
Next, the relay visited the Kourou Space Center, where the flame was carried past a model of the iconic Ariane V rocket and through the European flags pathway. The torch then made its way to Saint-Georges-de-l'Oyapock from where it followed the river marking the natural boundary with Brazil.
Celebrating Guyanese Sports and Culture in the Relay
A particularly significant segment of the relay took place at the Lucie Décosse Martial Arts House in Matoury. Lucie Décosse, the judo Olympic champion from the London 2012 Games, was present to carry the torch. Judo remained a focal point throughout the day, underscored by a collective relay organized by the Judo Federation in the heart of Guyana.
Other notable athletes such as Christiane Johnny, Riquel Bruno, and Danis Civil, who will represent France in breaking at the Paris 2024 Olympics, joined the procession. The day concluded in Cayenne, the capital, with Malia Metella, silver medalist in the 50m freestyle at the 2004 Athens Games, lighting the Olympic cauldron.
Future Stages of the Olympic Relay and Cancellations
The next stage of the relay is scheduled for this Wednesday in Réunion. Due to political unrest, the stage in New Caledonia, initially planned for Tuesday, has been canceled. Following Réunion, the flame will proceed to various territories including French Polynesia, Guadeloupe, and Martinique, bringing the spirit of the Olympics closer to countless spectators.
- An estimated 120 torchbearers will participate in the Guyanese segment of the relay. This includes prominent figures such as judoka Lucie Décosse, basketball player Kevin Séraphin, swimmer Malia Metella, and breakdancing champion Dany Dann. Breakdancing will make its Olympic debut at the Paris Games scheduled for July 26 to August 11, 2024.
- Since its arrival in Marseille aboard the Belem, the Olympic flame has captured the attention of nearly 1.2 million people, according to the Ministry of the Interior. The relay continues to inspire and unite people across different regions as it progresses towards the Paris Olympics.
