Paris 2024 Paralympics | Para Equestrian: Versailles Bids Adieu to the Games with a Musical Farewell
As the last day of the Para equestrian events draws to a close, the Château de Versailles bids a fond farewell to its Olympic and Paralympic journey.
The competition venue at the Château de Versailles is truly one of a kind. Set amid the lush gardens and removed from the city’s hustle and bustle, this tranquil setting provides a unique stage for riders and their horses. Unlike the bustling atmosphere of the Paris 2024 Games, Versailles offered a more serene ambiance. Fans adjusted to the quietude by raising their hands in enthusiastic gestures rather than clapping, which contributed to the calm atmosphere. During breaks between events, the spectators brought the energy with cheers, dances, and applause, adding a lively touch to the peaceful surroundings.
Music was central to today’s events, with a diverse array of styles setting the tone throughout Versailles. Classical pieces, contemporary hits, and original compositions all played their part. Some riders added their own flair: Sweden's Louise Etzner Jakobsson performed to ABBA's tunes, while France's Alexia Pittier selected Charles Aznavour’s "For me formidable" for her performance.
On the final day of competition, medals were presented in five distinct categories. The morning began with Demi Haerkens from the Netherlands and her horse Daula winning gold in Grade IV. Belgium’s Michele George followed with a gold medal in Grade V. At midday, Latvia’s Rihards Snikus took gold to the tune of "La camisa negra" by Juanes. The day concluded with American riders Fiona Howard and Rebecca Hart earning Paralympic titles in Grades II and III, respectively.
For the French team, the disappointment set in early as Vladimir Vinchon and his horse Pégase Mayenne finished fifth in Grade IV. Alexia Pittier and her horse Sultan 768 secured seventh place.
In Grade III, Chiara Zenati and Swing Royal delivered a commendable performance but narrowly missed the podium, finishing in fourth place. Despite the outcome, Zenati was emotional after her ride, stating, “I’m really happy with my horse. For our final performance together, it was truly fantastic.”
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