The Olympic flame for the Paris Olympics was kindled at the site of the ancient games in southern Greece, despite cloudy skies preventing the traditional lighting ceremony. Instead of using the sun to ignite the torch, a backup flame was used during the final rehearsal. The flame will now be carried in a relay by torchbearers along a 5,000-kilometer route through Greece, including several islands, before being handed over to Paris Games organizers in Athens on April 26. The lighting ceremony in ancient Olympia combined a homage to the past with a hope for the future, according to International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach.
Thousands of spectators from around the world gathered in Olympia to witness the flame lighting event, which took place amid the ruins of the ancient games. The site, teeming with pink-flowering Judas trees and small blue irises, was a picturesque backdrop for the ceremony. Greek authorities maintained high security in the area following protests at previous lighting ceremonies. The first torchbearer, Greek rower Stefanos Douskos, passed the flame to French swimmer Laure Manaudou near a monument containing the heart of Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games.
Amidst the celebrations, politics briefly surfaced as the heads of two sports federations criticized track and field leader Sebastian Coe for offering prize money to gold medalists in Paris. The move was seen as breaking with Olympic tradition and potentially limiting opportunities for athletes worldwide. The flame will now travel from Greece to France on a French three-masted sailing ship built in 1896, reaching Marseille on May 8. Despite the excitement surrounding the Olympics, some spectators from France expressed that attending the games in person would be unaffordable, with plans to watch the events from home.
Overall, the lighting of the Olympic flame in ancient Olympia for the Paris Olympics signified a blend of tradition, hope, and unity. The event, despite challenges from the weather and security concerns, brought together spectators from across the globe to witness the ancient ritual. As the flame embarks on its journey to Paris, the anticipation for the upcoming games grows, with promises of environmental impact and preparation progress highlighted by IOC President Thomas Bach. The Olympic spirit, a symbol of peace and competition, continues to inspire as the world looks forward to the Paris Olympics in July.
