A Belem Olympian parade enhanced with entertainment all day long
But the Belem had already been in the waters of Marseille since the end of the morning. The Old Port was decked out in the colors of the Olympic Games and vibrated from the start of the day to the rhythm of the activities organized for the occasion.
Six hours of parade along Marseille
The festivities began at 11am, when the Belem made its first appearance off the coast of Marseille. The famous three-masted ship paraded along the coast, accompanied by 1024 local boatsfirst in the northern harbor and in particular in l’Estaque, until 1 p.m., then in the southern harbor, notably known for its Corniche, until 3 p.m.
“This morning, we went out on a small zodiac with the French sailing team to meet Belem. It was incredible. I had this butterfly, when we do the Games and we are in the preparation, that we realize what we are going to do. I felt exactly this emotion coming up this morning. For me, that’s what the Games are, they must arouse emotion. Look, they are all singing and dancing, it’s a party, that’s what the Games are,” reacted Marie-José Pérec who was visibly very moved.
The ship built in 1896 then returned to the northern harbor. The opportunity for 150,000 spectators present to contemplate it and see the Olympic flame up close, enjoying the spectacle throughout the day.
Sports and cultural activities for all
Workshops were organized along the coast to celebrate his arrival: Provençal jousting workshops, parade of Marseille boats, involvement of local rowing, kayaking and canoeing clubs, escort of traditional sails or light sails by children , loop of around forty old rigging. There was something for everyone to please young and old alike.
There was also some excitement on the side of the Chateau d’Ifclassified as a historic monument, where 37 dancers from La Horde, the Marseille ballet, and the Grenable company, founded by Josette Baïz, performed “Room with a view” to music from Roneessential DJ of the French electro scene.
Finally, to end the day on a festive note, a concert is organized from 9 p.m. with Sopranofavorite personality of 7-14 year olds, and Alonzotwo Marseillais and former members of the rap group Psy 4 of rhyme, after the arrival of the Flame. They perform on a floating stage which allows 45,000 people to attend the concert for free.
