Athletes just can’t wait for in-Seine-ly exciting opening
Australian athletes remain excited about the revolutionary opening ceremony for the Paris Olympic Games, despite French President Emmanuel Macron admitting they could be moved if security concerns arise.
More than 300,000 spectators are expected to line the banks of the River Seine, half of the 600,000 that were initially planned, with about 10,000 athletes from around the world set to be on more than 160 barges across the 6km route.
It’s the first time an Olympic ceremony will be held outside of a stadium for the Summer Games to allow more people to engage in one of the showpiece events of the sporting calwith endar. However, the risk of danger in Paris remains extreme, with the Australian government warning any travellers going to France to “exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of terrorism”.
Speaking to local media on Monday, Macron confirmed that there are alternate plans for the ceremony should security advice suggest a move away from the Seine.
Anna Meares, the Australian team’s chef de mission, confirmed on Wednesday that no members of the team had raised concerns so far. And enthusiasm clearly outweighs any trepidation around the opening ceremony for athletes.
Beach volleyball dual Olympian Mariafe Artacho del Solar wants to be a part of history and partake in the ceremony on Paris’ Seine River.
“It would be epic and pretty cool and different to have the opening ceremony there,” del Solar said. “You always get the stadium ceremony at other Olympics, so it would be amazing to have it on the river.
“I think they will make it work, but if not (due to security) I’m not fussed.”
It’s a similar narrative for Australia’s water polo stars, who have been encouraged to enjoy events like the opening ceremony, particularly after the Covid-affected Tokyo Olympics.
“We haven’t talked about the opening ceremony and if we’re going to be participating yet,” Sharks cocaptain Blake Edwards said.
“But knowing Tim Hamill (Aussie Sharks coach), we have a saying which is, ‘smelling the roses’. He sees the value in taking a step back and soaking it all in.
“I’d be surprised if we didn’t go and participate and march at the opening ceremony. I’ve got full confidence in the AOC, IOC and government bodies to make the right decision in terms of safety.”
Del Solar is also pumped about the prospect of an Olympics that will return to normality after the Tokyo Games in 2021.
“(Paris) is going to be different compared to (Tokyo),” she said.
“It is going to be amazing for our sport to play in front of the Eiffel Tower. It’s going to be so magical.
“I love Paris. It’s one of my favourite cities, so it’s very exciting to be playing there.”