French Guiana Makes Olympic History with Torch Relay Debut

French Guiana Makes Olympic History with Torch Relay Debut

(IN BRIEF) French Guiana made history as the first French overseas territory to host the Olympic Torch Relay, showcasing its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage. The relay, organized by the French Federation for judo, featured local celebrities like Lucie Décosse and Alicia Aylies as torchbearers, culminating in Malia Metella lighting the celebration cauldron in Cayenne. The route traversed through significant sites like the Amazon rainforest, the space center in Kourou, and historical landmarks such as the Transportation penal colony. French Guiana’s champions, past and present, participated in the relay, emphasizing the region’s rich athletic history.

(PRESS RELEASE) PARIS, 10-Jun-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — French Guiana, the first French overseas territory to host the Olympic Torch Relay, welcomed this historic moment with a day filled with symbolism and stunning landscapes. The relay, marking the transition from mainland France to the Ocean Relay, showcased the region’s natural beauty, from the Amazon rainforest to the Atlantic coast, highlighting local pride like the renowned space center in Kourou.

Organized by the French Federation for judo, the relay featured local celebrities like Lucie Décosse and Alicia Aylies as torchbearers, culminating in Malia Metella lighting the celebration cauldron in Cayenne.

The relay journeyed through Camopi, Saint-Laurent du Maroni, and Kourou, passing historical sites like the Transportation penal colony and the space center. It also celebrated French Guiana’s champions, including athletes like Christiane Johnny and emerging stars like Danis Civil and Kayssia Hudson.

The day was a testament to French Guiana’s rich cultural heritage and its contribution to France’s athletic achievements. The collective relay, organized by the French Federation for Judo, honored judo and related disciplines, showcasing the talents of local athletes.

As the Ocean Relay continues, the Olympic Torch will next illuminate La Réunion on June 12th, offering another opportunity to celebrate culture, history, and athleticism in this unique French territory.

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SOURCE: Paris 2024