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Author: jose.rivas

ARTISTIC SWIMMING REVOLUTION: OLYMPIC HISTORY AT PARIS 2024

In a historic shift for artistic swimming, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games will witness a groundbreaking change, particularly impacting European athletes. For the first time in the history of the Olympic Games, men will be eligible to compete in the artistic swimming team event, adding a dynamic twist to the traditional discipline and creating gender parity.

Since its debut at the Los Angeles 1984 Olympics, artistic swimming has seen minimal changes. However, the team event at Paris 2024 introduces two significant modifications:

  1. Men’s Eligibility: Paris 2024 sets a milestone by allowing men to participate in the artistic swimming team event. This decision, endorsed by the International Olympic Committee in December 2022, provides male athletes with a platform to make history.
  2. Acrobatic Routine Introduction: Alongside the inclusion of men, the team event will feature an acrobatic routine, injecting fresh excitement and creativity into the traditional artistic swimming format.

At Paris 2024, ten teams, each comprising eight swimmers, will compete in the artistic swimming team event. Italy’s Giorgio Minisini, the first man to participate in a major senior competition during the recent European Games 2023 in Krakow, exemplifies the positive impact of this rule change.

Minisini aided Italy win three medals in the team event – silver in both the technical and free routines; bronze in the acrobatic discipline – adding to the gold in the technical mixed duet and silver in free mixed duet!

Expressing his thoughts on the rule change, Minisini stated, “We are now walking on a path towards inclusivity that will bring hope and opportunities to all athletes in our sport.” European athletes like Minisini and French swimmer Quentin Rakotomalala, aim to challenge stereotypes, emphasising inclusivity and diversity in artistic swimming.

As the Olympics approach, Europe stands at the forefront of this historic change, where men will challenge traditions and contribute to the ongoing evolution of artistic swimming. Paris 2024 promises to be a momentous chapter in the history of the sport, with European athletes playing a leading role in shaping its future.

BREAKING, SPORT CLIMBING, SKATEBOARDING, AND SURFING JOIN THE PARIS 2024 SPORTS PROGRAMME

As we gear up for the highly anticipated Paris 2024 Olympic Games, there’s an extra dose of excitement in the air as four new disciplines are set to make their debut on the grand stage. Breaking, sport climbing, skateboarding, and surfing will bring a fresh wave of energy and innovation to the Summer Olympics, promising captivating performances and thrilling moments.

Breaking: From the European Games 2023 to Paris 2024

One of the most groundbreaking additions to the Olympic program is breaking, also known as breakdancing in some places. The electric and dynamic nature of breaking earned it a spot in the Olympic spotlight, and at the European Games 2023 in Krakow, the stage was set for athletes to secure their place at Paris 2024.

In the B-boys category, Dany from France wowed judges and spectators alike, clinching victory and earning his ticket to the Olympic Games. Similarly, in the B-girls category, India from the Netherlands showcased exceptional skills, securing her spot in Paris 2024. These two European athletes are set to make history as they step onto the Olympic stage for the inaugural edition of breaking at the Games.

Sport Climbing

Sport climbing, a sport that combines speed, strength, and precision, is set to captivate audiences at Paris 2024. The addition of sport climbing to the Olympic program reflects a commitment to embracing diverse and dynamic disciplines.

Athletes from around the world will compete in lead climbing, speed climbing, and bouldering, showcasing their versatility and mastery of various climbing techniques.

Skateboarding

Skateboarding, a sport synonymous with urban culture and creativity, is set to inject an extra dose of “cool” into the Paris 2024 Olympics. With street and park disciplines on display, skateboarders will showcase their skills on ramps, rails, and other obstacles, promising a new and refreshing visual spectacle for fans around the world.

Skateboarding’s inclusion in the Olympic Games is a testament to the sport’s global appeal and its ability to resonate with a diverse audience. Get ready to witness the unique style and flair of skateboarders as they roll into the Olympic arena for the first time.

Surfing

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games will further expand the reach of the Summer Olympics, by adding surfing to the list of sports. Surfers will hit the waves, combining athleticism and artistry as they navigate the dynamic ocean conditions.

The inclusion of surfing aligns with the Olympic values of embracing nature and celebrating the diversity of sports. Expect breathtaking manoeuvres and thrilling rides as surfers from different corners of the globe showcase their passion for this iconic water sport.

The addition of breaking, sport climbing, skateboarding, and surfing to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games promises to elevate the Olympic experience to new heights. As athletes from diverse backgrounds and cultures converge to compete in these innovative disciplines, the spirit of the Games will undoubtedly be enriched with excitement, creativity, and a sense of unity. Get ready to witness history in the making as these four dynamic disciplines take their place on the Olympic stage in the City of Light.