Meaux, Hotel de Ville, June 20, 2024
With 30 days to go until the Olympic flame arrives in Meaux, a ceremony was held today at the Hôtel de Ville to mark the countdown. Organized by Jean-François Copé, Mayor of Meaux, and Jean-François Parigi, President of the Seine-et-Marne Departmental Council, the ceremony brought together Meaux's sports stakeholders, local elected officials and the many participants in the event scheduled for July 20. During this convivial gathering in the Salons d'Honneur, guests were also able to discover a sports-related exhibition inaugurated for the occasion. This initiative aims to promote the Olympic spirit and raise public awareness of the values of sport.
The town of Meaux, just 40 km from Paris, will welcome the Olympic flame with a series of festive and sporting events on July 20. From 3.30pm, the Georges Tauziet sports complex will open its doors free of charge to all residents and visitors. A rich and varied program awaits participants. Sports and musical events will be organized by the local authorities. The stands of Relais de la Flamme sponsors such as Coca-Cola, Banque Populaire and Caisse d'Epargne will offer activities ranging from water sports to basketball. A show will start at 6 p.m. on the sports slab, followed by the arrival of the last torchbearer at 7:20 p.m. and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron.
The torch route will begin at 6pm at the Musée de la Grande Guerre, accompanied by a concert and entertainment for children. The flame will then pass through several key points in the city, offering a variety of shows. At 6:20 p.m., the flame will arrive at Carrefour de l'Octroi, where the POM POM CHANN company will present a batucada and capoeira demonstration. At 6:35 p.m., it will reach Quai Jacques Prévert, where the company Les Enjoliveurs la Fiesta will present a theatrical and musical performance. At 6:41 p.m., on the Pont Jean Bureau, the Art Évolution company will perform an Olympic stilt-walker show. At 6:47 p.m., the Parvis du Théâtre Luxembourg will host rollerblading, scooter and skateboard demonstrations and initiations by the Ride Event association, accompanied by musical entertainment by DJ Pitcha. Finally, at 6:53 p.m., a participatory flash mob organized by Meldois dance schools and Olympic anthems created and sung by pupils from the town's elementary schools will round off the route before the finish at the Tauziet sports complex at 7:20 p.m.
The four torchbearers selected to carry the flame are Jocelyne Busson, Julie Lenglet, Ramy Aggoun and Benoît Maxin. Each of them represents the values of respect, excellence and courage held dear by the town of Meaux. Jocelyne Busson, the town's emblematic teacher, is particularly honored to carry the flame and shares her enthusiasm and memories on this unique occasion. Julie Lenglet, a professional firefighter and two-time world champion in Thai boxing, is also delighted to be taking part in this historic event. Ramy Aggoun, young French break dancing champion, represents the youth and energy of Meldois sport. Benoît Maxin, who has always been involved in the town's cultural life, embodies the spirit of inclusion and solidarity.
The passage of the Olympic flame through Meaux is a unique opportunity for the town to shine on the world stage. The municipality and its partners are doing their utmost to ensure that this event is a resounding success, celebrating sport and its values with all residents and visitors. Before arriving in Meaux, the flame will pass through several communes in Seine-et-Marne, including Fontainebleau, Melun, Lagny-sur-Marne, Brou-sur-Chantereine, Chelles, Provins, Saint-Thibault-des-Vignes, Torcy, Pontault-Combault and the Vaires-sur-Marne Olympic site.
Last February, the Conseil Départemental decided to offer Seine-et-Marne residents the chance to win tickets to the Olympic events. This initiative further strengthens the involvement of the local community in the Olympic festivities. Don't miss this historic celebration and experience the magic of Olympism in Meaux!