Vivianne Robinson: The Super Fan Returns for Paris 2024

Vivianne Robinson: The Super Fan Returns for Paris 2024

Vivianne Robinson, a dedicated Olympics enthusiast from Venice Beach, Florida, is making her sixth Olympic appearance in Paris 2024. Her passion for the Games has led her to travel to various venues, collect commemorative pins, and become a sought-after fan for photographs.

In Rio 2016, Robinson’s presence was ubiquitous, with fans eager to capture a moment with her. She had planned to attend the Tokyo Olympics but was thwarted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Undeterred, she has returned to Paris with a wardrobe tailored specifically for the occasion, including a white outfit adorned with the Paris 2024 mascot and a matching hat.

Despite the dispersed venues in Paris, Robinson’s enthusiasm remains undiminished. She has become a favorite of news crews, with her interviews trending on social media. Her unwavering support for the Games has led her to spend over $10,000, maxing out her credit cards and working multiple jobs to fund her trip.

“This Olympics is the most I have spent on any Olympics,” Robinson said. “I have bought tickets to 38 events… but I am having a good time watching the games. I was determined to see the Olympics in Paris.”

Robinson’s passion for the Olympics extends beyond the spectacle of the Games. She carries her collection of pins from previous Olympics, symbolizing her unity with the Olympic spirit. In Paris, she has embraced the role of a super fan, cheering on athletes and immersing herself in the atmosphere of the city she loves.

India's Largest Paralympic Contingent of 84 Athletes to Compete in Paris 2024

India’s Largest Paralympic Contingent of 84 Athletes to Compete in Paris 2024

India has announced its largest-ever contingent of 84 athletes to compete at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, scheduled from August 28 to September 8. This marks a significant increase from the 54 athletes sent to the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, including 14 women. Notably, India will participate in three new sports at Paris 2024: para-cycling, para-rowing, and blind judo, bringing the total number of sports to 12.

Arshad Shaik and Jyoti Gaderiya will represent India in para-cycling, while Kapil Parmar and Kokila will compete in blind judo. Anita and K. Narayana will participate in para-rowing.

India’s most successful Paralympic Games was Tokyo 2020, where the country won 19 medals, including five gold, eight silver, and six bronze. Avani Lekhara, who won gold in the women’s R2 10m air rifle standing SH1 event, will return to compete in Paris 2024. Sumit Antil, the gold medalist in men’s F64 javelin throw, will also participate.

Table tennis player Bhavina Patel, who won India’s first Paralympics medal in the sport, will compete in the women’s singles and doubles events. Harvinder Singh, the first Indian to win an archery medal at the Paralympics, will appear in individual and mixed team recurve events.

Indian Paralympic Contingent Receives Grand Send-Off for Paris Games

Indian Paralympic Contingent Receives Grand Send-Off for Paris Games

Indian Paralympic Contingent Receives Grand Send-Off for Paris Games

The Indian Paralympic contingent, comprising 84 athletes across 12 disciplines, was accorded a grand send-off ceremony on Friday ahead of the Paris Games scheduled from August 28 to September 8. The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and Sports Authority of India (SAI) hosted the event to honor the team’s dedication and perseverance.

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya lauded the athletes’ resilience and determination, stating, “Our para athletes have a remarkable ability to overcome obstacles and turn challenges into opportunities. They have shown remarkable determination and perseverance in their preparation for the Paris Paralympics 2024.”

Mandaviya emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the athletes, saying, “Many athletes have benefited from the Khelo India initiative, and a significant number from there will be going to the Paris Paralympics. The government is committed to providing them with the resources and support they need to excel at the highest level.”

PCI president Devendra Jhajharia expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform well in Paris, saying, “We are immensely proud of our athletes who have trained with unwavering dedication and passion. As they prepare to represent India on the world’s biggest stage in Paris, they embody the spirit of resilience and determination that defines our nation.”

A special anthem, “Macha Dhoom,” composed by renowned music directors Vivek – Abhishek, was launched during the event. Additionally, a commemorative book titled “Breaking the Barriers,” authored by Abhishek Dubey and Mahavir Rawat, was unveiled to celebrate the achievements and aspirations of the Indian Paralympic team.

The Indian contingent will be competing in archery, athletics, badminton, canoeing, cycling, blind judo, powerlifting, rowing, shooting, swimming, table tennis, and taekwondo at the Paris Paralympics. The team hopes to build on its success at the Tokyo Paralympics, where India won 19 medals.

Sumit Antil and Bhagyashree Jadhav to Lead Indian Contingent at Paris Paralympics

Sumit Antil and Bhagyashree Jadhav to Lead Indian Contingent at Paris Paralympics

Indian Paralympians Sumit Antil and Bhagyashree Jadhav to Bear the Flag at Paris Paralympics

Tokyo Paralympics gold medalist Sumit Antil and Asian Para Games silver medalist Bhagyashree Jadhav have been chosen as the Indian flag-bearers for the opening ceremony of the Paris Paralympics. The announcement was made by Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) chief Devendra Jhajharia.

“Antil and Bhagyashree have been consistent performers over the years. They will be Indian flag-bearers at the Paris Paralympics’ athletes march past,” Jhajharia stated.

Sumit Antil, a javelin thrower from Haryana, made history at the Tokyo Paralympics by winning the gold medal in the F64 category with a world record throw of 68.55 meters. He continued his winning streak by securing a gold medal at the World Para Championships and breaking his own record at the Asian Para Games with an impressive throw of 73.29 meters.

Bhagyashree Jadhav, a shotputter competing in the F34 category, earned a silver medal at the Asian Para Games. She has also achieved success at the FAZZA World Cup.

The Indian contingent for the Paris Paralympics, scheduled from August 28 to September 8, comprises 84 athletes representing 12 disciplines. India’s performance at the Tokyo Paralympics was remarkable, with the team bringing home 19 medals.

Antil and Jadhav’s selection as flag-bearers is a testament to their exceptional achievements and dedication to their sport. Their presence at the head of the Indian contingent will undoubtedly inspire and motivate their fellow athletes.

Paris 2024 Olympics: Customer Care Encounters Quirky and Amusing Inquiries

Paris 2024 Olympics: Customer Care Encounters Quirky and Amusing Inquiries

The Paris 2024 Olympics, a spectacle of athleticism and sporting excellence, also witnessed a flurry of peculiar and amusing inquiries directed at the event’s customer care service. While most queries were reasonable and straightforward, some stood out for their eccentricity and unexpected nature.

One such inquiry came from a self-proclaimed composer who offered a “very popular and quality hymn” for the Olympics. Another request, more specific in its nature, asked if any Olympic volunteers could sing Chinese love songs or revolutionary tunes from the Cultural Revolution era.

Among the more perplexing questions was a request for a boiled egg recipe, dubbed “Olympic eggs.” A table tennis enthusiast also came forward with an idea for presenting a table tennis table, suggesting a potential contribution to the event’s visual setup.

In a bold musical request, someone expressed their desire to perform a duet with world-renowned singer Céline Dion at the Olympics’ Opening Ceremony. Love was in the air for one spectator who attended a beach volleyball session, hoping to reconnect with a person they met but whose identity remained unknown.

One of the funniest requests came from a fan enamored with the Olympic mascot Phryge and swimmer Léon Marchand. The fan expressed their admiration for Phryge and requested an autograph from Marchand, despite not having social media accounts.

These bizarre queries, while not directly related to the sporting events, added a touch of humor and unexpectedness to the Paris 2024 Olympics. They showcased the diverse and sometimes quirky nature of human curiosity and the unique experiences that can arise during such grand sporting events.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Dream Ends in Heartbreaking Disqualification

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Dream Ends in Heartbreaking Disqualification

Indian wrestling star Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic dream came crashing down in the women’s freestyle 50kg category at the Paris 2024 Games due to a heartbreaking disqualification. Despite two stunning victories over wrestling giants Yui Susaki of Japan and Oksana Livach of Ukraine, Phogat’s hopes were dashed when she was found to be 100 grams overweight at the weigh-in.

Phogat’s disqualification sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. The 29-year-old had resorted to extreme measures to make weight, including cutting her hair, going without food and water, and working out an entire night. Her plight evoked sympathy across the board, as she ultimately needed IV fluids due to extreme dehydration.

Phogat’s victories over Susaki and Livach were particularly impressive, given their formidable records. Susaki, the reigning Olympic gold medalist, had never lost an international wrestling match before her encounter with Phogat. Livach, a former World Championships bronze medalist, had also entered the quarter-final with great momentum.

Phogat’s triumph over Susaki was a testament to her determination and skill. She overcame the odds to defeat the overwhelming favorite in a tight 3-2 contest. Her victory over Livach further solidified her status as a world-class wrestler.

In the semi-final, Phogat faced Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, the reigning 50kg gold medalist in the Pan American Games. Guzman ultimately won the silver medal after Phogat’s disqualification.

Phogat’s disqualification has raised questions about the weight-cutting practices in wrestling. Many experts believe that the current system is dangerous and needs to be reformed. Phogat’s experience highlights the need for a more humane and athlete-centric approach to weight management in the sport.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Medal Hopes Crushed by CAS

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Medal Hopes Crushed by CAS

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic medal hopes were dashed on Wednesday when the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected her plea for a joint silver medal at the Paris 2024 Games. The decision concluded a tumultuous saga that began with Vinesh’s remarkable performance on the first day of the women’s 50kg wrestling competition.

On August 6, Vinesh stunned the wrestling world by defeating reigning Olympic champion Yui Sasaki of Japan. She continued her impressive run by overcoming Ukrainian Oksana Livach and Cuban Yusneylis Guzman to reach the final. However, her dream of becoming the first Indian woman to win an Olympic wrestling medal above bronze was shattered the following day.

Vinesh was disqualified from the gold medal match against Sarah Hildebrandt of the United States after failing to meet the weight limit by 100 grams. The news sent shockwaves through the wrestling community and India, with many expressing disbelief and outrage.

Reports emerged of the extreme measures Vinesh and her coaching staff had taken to ensure she made weight, including drawing blood and cutting her hair. The Wrestling Federation of India filed an appeal with United World Wrestling, while Vinesh appealed to CAS, demanding a joint silver medal.

On August 8, Vinesh announced her retirement from wrestling. The hearing into her appeal concluded on August 9, with CAS initially postponing the announcement of the verdict to August 13. However, the decision was further delayed to August 16.

Finally, on August 14, CAS dismissed Vinesh’s plea. The international tribunal stated that the full award with reasons would be notified to the parties and published on its website.

Vinesh’s disqualification and subsequent retirement have sparked a debate about the weight management practices in wrestling and the need for athlete welfare. The incident has also highlighted the challenges faced by female athletes in balancing their weight with their performance.

Olympic Tennis: Unforgettable Memories and Historic Moments in Paris

Olympic Tennis: Unforgettable Memories and Historic Moments in Paris

The 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris left an unforgettable mark on the tennis world, with players experiencing a whirlwind of emotions and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

For Iga Swiatek of Poland, the Games were a bittersweet experience. Despite falling short of the gold medal, she secured a historic bronze, becoming the first Polish tennis player to win an Olympic medal. The pressure of the Games was immense, but Swiatek emerged from the experience with valuable lessons and a newfound appreciation for the Olympic spirit.

Carlos Alcaraz of Spain, the runner-up in men’s singles, cherished his time in Paris, especially the opportunity to play doubles with his childhood hero, Rafael Nadal. Alcaraz described Nadal as a “masterclass” on and off the court, providing invaluable guidance on handling tough moments.

Zheng Qinwen of China made history by winning the gold medal in women’s singles, overcoming nerves and pressure to secure her country’s first Olympic gold in the sport. The experience was life-changing for Zheng, who plans to celebrate with her family after the US Open.

Coco Gauff of the United States, despite not winning a medal, embraced the Olympic experience to the fullest. As Team USA’s flagbearer alongside Lebron James, Gauff felt honored to represent her country. While the results on the court were disappointing, she gained valuable life lessons and forged lasting connections.

Jessica Pegula of the United States used the highs and lows of Paris as motivation to defend her title at the National Bank Open in Toronto. Pegula gained a newfound respect for fellow Olympians, particularly those in track and field, gymnastics, and swimming, who face the immense pressure of performing once every four years.

Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine found the Olympic spirit particularly poignant, as she and her fellow tennis players united to represent their countries. The atmosphere in the locker room was different, with players focused on competing for a cause greater than themselves.

Jasmine Paolini of Italy, a surprise gold medalist in women’s doubles with Sara Errani, admitted to initially being hesitant about playing doubles. However, she found the right partner in Errani, who helped her navigate the format and ultimately achieve a historic victory for Italy.

The 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris provided a platform for tennis players to showcase their skills, experience the Olympic spirit, and create memories that will inspire them for years to come.

Indian Athletes Navigate Post-Olympic Rollercoaster: Medals, Near-Misses, and Emotional Challenges

Indian Athletes Navigate Post-Olympic Rollercoaster: Medals, Near-Misses, and Emotional Challenges

The 2024 Paris Olympics have been a bittersweet experience for Indian athletes. While the country’s six-medal haul marks its second-best performance at the Games, several events have left a lasting impact beyond the podium.

One notable aspect was the string of fourth-place finishes for Indian athletes. From wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s heartbreaking disqualification to the women’s hockey team’s narrow miss, these near-misses have highlighted the country’s growing competitiveness on the global stage.

However, the post-Olympic period has also brought challenges for some athletes. Rani Rampal, who captained the women’s hockey team to a historic fourth-place finish in Tokyo, has shared her insights on the emotional rollercoaster that follows the Games.

In a message originally penned by New Zealand hockey player Brooke Neal, Rampal emphasized the lack of preparation for the post-Olympic void. Athletes often experience a sense of emptiness and confusion after the intense bubble of competition.

“You’ve just competed at the world’s biggest sporting event and yet, this is one of the lowest times you’ve ever felt,” Neal wrote. “You weren’t prepared for life to continue as if nothing happened.”

Rampal’s own experience since Tokyo has been marked by adversity. She has fallen out of favor with the head coach and has struggled to regain her place in the national team.

Despite the challenges, Rampal remains optimistic about the future of Indian sports. She believes that the country’s athletes are capable of achieving even greater heights in the years to come.

India's Olympic Medal Haul: Six Medals, Third-Best Outing at Summer Games

India’s Olympic Medal Haul: Six Medals, Third-Best Outing at Summer Games

India’s performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics was a testament to the nation’s growing prowess in sports. With six medals, India fell just short of its record tally from Tokyo 2020, but it marked the country’s third-best outing at the Summer Games.

Archery, athletics, badminton, boxing, equestrian, golf, hockey, judo, rowing, sailing, shooting, swimming, wrestling, table tennis, and tennis were the 16 sports in which Indian athletes competed. Athletics boasted the largest Indian representation with a 29-member squad, while shooting fielded a record 21 shooters.

Beyond medals, Indian athletes also set new records at the Games. Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic champion in javelin throw, added to his legacy with a silver medal, becoming the fifth two-time Olympic medallist from India. Manu Bhaker made history as the first Indian woman to win an Olympic shooting medal, claiming bronze in the 10m air pistol event.

Bhaker also teamed up with Sarabjot Singh to win India’s first-ever Olympic medal in shooting team events. Swapnil Kusale’s bronze in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions marked India’s best medals tally in one sport at the Olympics, with three medals in shooting.

The Indian men’s hockey team continued their resurgence, winning bronze for the second consecutive Olympics. This was India’s first back-to-back Olympic medals in hockey since Munich 1972. Harmanpreet Singh emerged as India’s top scorer with 10 goals, while PR Sreejesh made crucial saves throughout the tournament.

In archery, Dhiraj Bommadevara and Ankita Bhakat finished fourth in the mixed team event, securing India’s best result in the sport at the Olympics. Lakshya Sen became the first Indian shuttler to reach the semi-finals in men’s badminton, while Manika Batra and Sreeja Akula made history in table tennis by reaching the pre-quarterfinals.

India’s performance at the Paris Olympics showcased the nation’s growing competitiveness on the global stage. With a strong contingent of athletes and a focus on excellence, India is poised for continued success in future Olympic Games.

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