AssetID: 53848961
Headline: RAW VIDEO: Olympic Flame Reaches French Polynesia
Caption: The Olympic Flame continued its journey to Paris on Thursday 13 June - almost 10,000 miles away from the French capital in French Polynesia. After visits to French Guiana and Réunion, the Olympic Flame continued its journey across the French overseas territories. As part of the Relais des Océans, Paris 2024 and the sponsors Coca-Cola, Banque Populaire, and Caisse d’Épargne, are engaging the French community worldwide in the celebration of the Games. On Thursday, June 13, French Polynesia honored its athletes while celebrating its rich heritage. The Flame continues its oceanic journey, with French Polynesia being the third overseas territory to host it. This visit offers a chance to discover a unique cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, ranging from azure lagoons to mysterious caves and rugged peaks. The day began with a nod to the surfing events of the Paris 2024 Olympics, visiting Teahupo’o on Tahiti. The Flame then traveled northwest to Teva I Uta, exploring the exotic flora in the Harrison Smith Botanical Garden, before moving to the tranquil Motu Ovini by the sea. The journey continued to Papara, known for its black sand beach, and Taiarapu-Est, with its breathtaking scenery and turquoise waters. Further north, Papenoo offered a mix of black sand beaches, prime surfing spots, and wild valleys. A canoe ride took the Flame to Pointe Vénus, and then to the tomb of King Pomare V, the last king of Tahiti. The day's adventure concluded in Papeete, illuminating the city's sports sites and infrastructure. The journey in the city started at Pirae's Aorai Tini Hau Park, moved through Vai’ete Square by the water, and Paofai Gardens, before heading to the Willy Bambridge sports stadium, and finally ending at To’ata Square. A highlight of this leg was a collective relay organised by the Tahitian Surfing Federation, led by the legendary Tahitian surfer, Hira Teriinatoofa. The day concluded with Michel Bourez, another surfing prodigy, lighting the cauldron at the celebration site in Papeete. To mark this exceptional day, 122 torchbearers participated, including several Polynesian athletes. Among them was Christian Ti-Paon, a para-cycling champion, and gold and silver medalist in the 2018 Para-va’a World Speed Championships. Antonin Mianne, the French Polynesian equestrian team coach, and Michel Bourez, known as "the Spartan," were also present in Papeete. Bourez, one of the world's most powerful surfers, lit the cauldron at To’ata Square, a venue for many sports and cultural events.
Keywords: features,french polynesia,olympics,paris 2024,france,photo,video
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