Paris 2024 Paralympics | Para Equestrian: Versailles Says Goodbye to the Games with a Musical Farewell

 

As the final day of Para equestrian events draws to a close, the Château de Versailles bids a fond farewell to its role in the Olympic and Paralympic journey.

It has been nearly six weeks since the Château de Versailles first hosted an Olympic event on July 27. Today, September 7, the Para equestrian freestyle events, complete with their musical routines, bring to a close an unforgettable summer at Versailles.

The competition venue at the Château de Versailles is truly unique. Set amid its lush gardens and away from the bustling city, this tranquil setting provided a distinct backdrop for riders and their horses. While the Paris 2024 Games were marked by enthusiastic crowds, the atmosphere at Versailles was more subdued. Spectators adapted by waving their hands instead of clapping, maintaining a quiet and respectful ambiance. In between events, the crowd showed their support through cheers, dances, and applause.

Music played a central role today, with a diverse range of styles—from classical to contemporary, and even original compositions—enriching the experience. Some riders added personal flair to their performances, such as Sweden's Louise Etzner Jakobsson, who danced to ABBA, and France's Alexia Pittier, who performed to Charles Aznavour's "For me formidable."

Final Medals Awarded

On the final day of competition, medals were presented across five categories. The morning began with the Netherlands' Demi Haerkens and her horse Daula taking home gold in Grade IV. In Grade V, Belgium's Michele George emerged as the Paralympic champion. By midday, Latvia’s Rihards Snikus clinched gold while performing to "La camisa negra" by Juanes. The day concluded with American riders Fiona Howard and Rebecca Hart winning gold in Grades II and III, respectively.

### French Athletes Miss the Podium

For the French team, the day brought disappointment as Vladimir Vinchon and his horse Pégase Mayenne finished in fifth place in Grade IV. Alexia Pittier and her horse Sultan 768 ended the competition in seventh place.

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