The Olympic torch relay will shine a spotlight on the Aube region this Saturday, July 13, as part of the festivities leading up to the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics. The relay will see 92 bearers take turns throughout seven segments, starting at 8:40 a.m. in Ervy-le-Châtel, known for its medieval streets, and culminating at the Troyes exhibition center at 7:30 p.m.
The torch's journey will begin in Ervy-le-Châtel, passing notable landmarks such as the Saint-Pierre-ès-Liens church. It will then move to Nogent-sur-Seine, famous for its Camille Claudel museum, before heading to Ville-sous-la-Ferté, with an arrival at the historic Clairvaux Abbey. Romilly-sur-Seine will follow, leading the torch to the three waves swimming pool. The fun continues in Dolancourt, home to the amusement park Nigloland, and then to the vineyards.
Mesnil-Saint-Père will welcome the torch with a visit to the beach of Lac d'Orient, an area ideal for swimming and water activities. The relay will then head to Troyes, passing through the International Multisport and Climbing Complex and ending at the University of Technology, which will allow entry into the historic capital of Champagne. The day will highlight dance, particularly breaking, which is making its debut at the Olympic Games as an additional sport. Arthur Badié, a pioneer of the hip-hop movement in Troyes, will lead the relay.
Notable figures such as Gaëtane Thiney, a former striker of the French football team, television host Monsieur Poulpe, and Claude Gamot, a former French sabreur, will carry the flame. The lighting of the cauldron will take place at the Cube, Troyes' exhibition center, at 7:30 p.m.
As the countdown to the 2024 Summer Olympics continues, Paris is preparing to host the games starting on July 26. The city aims to offer a fresh perspective and focus on local residents. Book enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the spirit of the Olympics and Paris with several recommended reads, including Stefan Ulrich’s travel guide and Ulrich Kühne-Hellmessen and Detlef Vetten’s comprehensive book on the games.
The traditional July 14 parade, which will occur in the context of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, will see significant changes. For the first time since 1979, the ceremony will not take place on the Champs-Élysées but between Place Charles-de-Gaulle and Avenue Foch. The parade will feature helicopters, Companions of the Liberation units, and a dynamic sequence of planes, culminating with the Patrouille de France. This year's event will mark the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of France and emphasize the connection between the military and Olympism.
- The Olympic torch relay in Aube will cover several towns and landmarks, providing a unique opportunity for local residents and visitors to witness the flame's journey. Each segment of the relay will highlight the cultural and historical significance of the region, from medieval streets and historic abbeys to modern sports complexes and amusement parks.
- The participation of notable figures such as Gaëtane Thiney, Monsieur Poulpe, and Claude Gamot adds a layer of excitement and prestige to the event. Their involvement underscores the relay's importance as a prelude to the grand spectacle of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.
- The July 14 parade, traditionally held on the Champs-Élysées, will be relocated to a new route, offering a fresh experience for spectators. This change, along with the inclusion of helicopters and a special focus on the Companions of the Liberation, aims to create a more intimate and engaging celebration of France's military heritage and its connection to the Olympic spirit.