IN PICTURES – For her last race, Marie Patouillet wins gold on the Paralympic velodrome track – Libération

Monday 02nd September 2024 11:25 AM

In the eye of Libé

At 36, French paracyclist Marie Patouillet pushed herself to the limit to win the first Paralympic title of her career by winning the C5 individual pursuit on Sunday, before hanging up her bike.

published today at 5:03 p.m.

Marie Patouillet at the national velodrome of Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Sunday September 1st.

Florence Brochoire/Liberation

Marie Patouillet on the track of the national velodrome of Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Sunday September 1st.

Florence Brochoire/Liberation

The space in the middle of the track is used for warm-up for the riders and as a mechanical workshop to maintain the machines between each race.

Florence Brochoire/Liberation

Marie Patouillet congratulates Heidi Gaugain after qualifying for the individual pursuit final on Sunday.

Florence Brochoire/Liberation

Marie Patouillet’s coach shouts her split times so she can manage her effort.

Florence Brochoire/Liberation

The joy of Marie Patouillet, who kisses her wife at the end of her victorious race.

Florence Brochoire/Liberation

The paracyclists of the French team encourage the rider.

Florence Brochoire/Liberation

Athletes warm up in the space in the middle of the track at the Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines national velodrome.

Florence Brochoire/Liberation

As her young compatriot Heidi Gaugain received her silver medal, Marie Patouillet began to stagger, overcome by a feeling of unease. “The heat, the emotions, the physical effort,” the champion listed a few dozen minutes later, after taking the time to regain her strength and colour.

Florence Brochoire/Liberation

Marie Patouillet is supported on the podium by Heïdi Gaugain (silver) and New Zealander Nicole Murray (bronze).

Florence Brochoire/Liberation