Get Active with “24 Sites for 2024”: Free Sports Events in Seine-Saint-Denis
Residents of Rosny-sous-Bois and surrounding areas have a unique possibility to experience a variety of sports for free this Sunday afternoon. This initiative, part of the “24 Sites for 2024” program, aims to build excitement for the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games while promoting physical activity in the community.From 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Place Henri-Mondor, participants can try their hand at diverse disciplines like street workout, CrossFit (a blend of weightlifting, gymnastics, and endurance training), and stick twirling (a captivating fusion of dance, theater, and gymnastics).More customary activities like pétanque, rock climbing, and the exhilarating urban obstacle course discipline of parkour will also be available.this program, a collaborative effort between the Seine-Saint-denis Departmental Olympic and sports Committee (CDOS) and the departmental council, has been running since summer 2020. Financial support from Paris 2024, the Games’ organizer, ensures its continuation.
The “24 Sites for 2024” initiative is designed to be accessible and engaging, setting up in public spaces like squares and town hall forecourts. Since January 29th, it has already visited Rosny, stains, Villemomble, and Dugny, offering residents a taste of winter sports like curling and hockey in a nod to the recent Beijing Games. The program will continue to expand, with a call for applications from other towns in the department expected soon.
Promoting Physical Activity and Olympic Spirit
Zaïnaba Saïd-Anzum, a departmental councilor responsible for sports, emphasizes the multifaceted goals of the program. “Our aim is to involve residents as much as possible in the lead-up to the Olympics,” she explains. “We want them to feel that even if their city isn’t hosting events, the Games will still be a part of their lives. We strive to create a sense of unity across the entire territory.”
The program also addresses the decline in physical activity following the COVID-19 pandemic.”Promoting sports is crucial after the sedentary lifestyles many adopted during lockdowns,” Saïd-Anzum adds.”Peopel are realizing the importance of their health, and we want to encourage them to get active again.”
each session features activities organized by various sports associations, providing participants with the opportunity to explore new disciplines beyond those readily available in their local area.
Philippe Sturm, head of CDOS 93, highlights the program’s commitment to introducing both Olympic and non-Olympic sports to a wider audience. “We want to reach individuals who are currently inactive and inspire them to embrace a more active lifestyle,” he states. “Our ultimate goal is to encourage participants to join local sports clubs.While we recognize that access to specialized facilities, like ice rinks, can be a barrier for some sports, we believe that clubs are the ideal surroundings for sustained engagement and advancement.”
Getting ParisPumped: An Interview with Champion parkour Athlete, Marion Leroudier
The “24 Sites for 2024” initiative has been making waves throughout Seine-Saint-Denis, bringing the spirit of the Olympics and the joy of movement directly too residents.
To discuss the program’s impact and its broader implications for the sporting landscape, we welcome Marion Leroudier, a prominent figure in the world of parkour and a passionate advocate for inclusive physical activity. Marion, welcome to the show!
Marion: It’s a pleasure to be here.
Moderator: Marion, the “24 Sites for 2024” program offers free access to diverse sports like parkour, CrossFit, and even stick twirling. What are your thoughts on this approach to promoting sports and building excitement for the Olympics?
Marion: I think it’s absolutely fantastic. it’s brilliant that the program is taking sports directly to the people, especially in public spaces. Access is a huge barrier to entry for many, so offering free sessions in thes settings is a clever way to break down those barriers. And the diversity of sports is key. It allows people to discover disciplines they might never have considered before, like parkour. It’s not just about the Olympics; it’s about building a lifelong love of movement.
Moderator: You mentioned parkour specifically. As a champion in the sport, what potential do you see in platforms like “24 Sites for 2024” helping parkour gain wider acceptance and participation?
Marion: Parkour faces a unique challenge: it’s frequently enough seen as an extreme or hazardous sport. Initiatives like this allow people to see it in a different light. They can try it in a safe, controlled habitat with expert supervision. I hope it helps dispel the myths and show people that parkour can be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, not just seasoned athletes.
Moderator: Zaïnaba Saïd-Anzum, departmental councilor responsible for sports, asserts that the programRegisters the post-pandemic decline in physical activity. Do you think events like these can effectively address this issue?
Marion:
They’Re definitely a step in the right direction. So many people adopted sedentary lifestyles during lockdown. “24 Sites for 2024” can help people rediscover the joy of movement in a fun and engaging way, without the pressure of competition or gym memberships. It’s about creating a supportive community and encouraging people to get active again.
Moderator:
There’s a strong emphasis on channeling participants towards local sports clubs.Some argue this is a way to ensure sustained engagement. Others believe it might be too restrictive. What’s your outlook?
Marion:
I actually see both sides. On one hand, joining a club offers structure, guidance, and a sense of community. It’s a great way to learn a sport properly and develop your skills. But, on the other hand, not everyone is looking for that level of commitment. Some just want to try new things and have fun. Perhaps there coudl be a greater focus on creating informal opportunities for people to continue their sporting journey after the events, like parkour meetups or community fitness classes.
Moderator:
Excellent point! Now, a question for our readers: How critically important do you believe it is indeed for programs like “24 Sites for 2024” to feature both Olympic and non-Olympic sports?
Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s keep this conversation going!
