Paris 2024 Paralympics: Versailles Bids Farewell to Para Equestrian Events with Music

As the curtains close on the Para equestrian events at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, the iconic Château de Versailles bids an emotional farewell to the Games. The final day, marked by musical freestyle performances, brought an end to what has been an unforgettable summer of sport at one of the world’s most historic venues.

A Unique Venue for a Unique Sport

The Para equestrian events took place in a setting like no other. Nestled within the sprawling gardens of the Château de Versailles, far from the hustle and bustle of Paris, the competition site offered a serene atmosphere. Here, athletes and their horses performed in front of supportive crowds who created a respectful, quiet environment. Instead of clapping, spectators waved their hands in the air to cheer on the riders, ensuring that the horses were not startled. Between events, there was a joyful energy as fans expressed their enthusiasm with cheers, dances, and applause.

The setting of Versailles, with its rich history and stunning landscape, provided a fitting backdrop for the grace and elegance of the Para equestrian events. The atmosphere was peaceful, yet the excitement and passion from both the athletes and the spectators were palpable.

Music Takes Center Stage

Music played a vital role in the final day's events. From classical compositions to contemporary hits, each rider chose a unique soundtrack to accompany their performance. For many athletes, these musical choices reflected their personal style and brought an extra layer of emotion to their routines.

One of the most memorable moments came from Sweden’s Louise Etzner Jakobsson, who chose to perform to music from the legendary Swedish band ABBA. Her performance to the upbeat tunes of her homeland captivated the audience. Meanwhile, France’s own Alexia Pittier added a touch of nostalgia with her choice of Charles Aznavour’s classic song "For me formidable," creating a special connection with the home crowd.

The variety of musical styles showcased the individuality of each rider, making the day not just a sporting event but also a celebration of music, culture, and talent.

Final Day of Medals

The final day of competition saw medals awarded across five different categories, with athletes from around the world delivering stunning performances. The Netherlands' Demi Haerkens and her horse Daula kicked off the day with a gold medal in Grade IV. Haerkens’ precise and graceful routine set the tone for the day, highlighting the skill and harmony between rider and horse.

In Grade V, Belgium’s Michele George claimed the top spot, adding another Paralympic title to her impressive career. Her performance was both powerful and elegant, earning her well-deserved gold.

One of the day’s highlights came when Latvia’s Rihards Snikus rode to the popular tune "La camisa negra" by Juanes. His energetic performance earned him gold and left a lasting impression on the audience. The lively music choice added an extra spark to his ride, showing how music can elevate the energy of a performance.

The final medals of the day went to the United States’ Fiona Howard and Rebecca Hart, who became Paralympic champions in Grades II and III, respectively. Their dedication and skill were on full display as they executed flawless routines, bringing home gold for Team USA.

A Tough Day for French Athletes

For the French athletes, the final day of competition came with its share of challenges. Vladimir Vinchon, riding his horse Pégase Mayenne, finished in fifth place in Grade IV. While it wasn’t the podium finish he had hoped for, his performance was a testament to his determination and skill.

Alexia Pittier, riding Sultan 768, also faced disappointment, finishing in seventh place. However, her choice of Charles Aznavour’s music created a touching moment for the home crowd, who warmly supported her throughout the event.

In Grade III, Chiara Zenati and her horse Swing Royal delivered a strong performance, narrowly missing out on a medal. Finishing in fourth place, Zenati expressed pride in her horse and their final ride together. “I’m really happy with my horse, and for a final performance together, it was truly fantastic,” she said, showing the deep bond between rider and horse.

A Bittersweet Goodbye

As the sun set on the final day of Para equestrian events at Versailles, there was a bittersweet feeling in the air. The Château de Versailles, a venue steeped in history and beauty, had hosted an unforgettable chapter in both the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The peaceful yet passionate atmosphere of the events will be remembered by all who attended.

The combination of music, sport, and the unique setting made the final day of Para equestrian events a truly special occasion. As Versailles bids farewell to its role in the Paris 2024 Games, it leaves behind memories of athletic excellence, artistic performances, and the power of the human spirit.