In Conversation With Annamarie Phelps

With the curtain drawn on the Paris Olympics following last week's spectacular closing ceremony, we recall the anticipation and excitement that surrounded these games. Earlier this year, Annamarie Phelps, Deputy Chair of the British Olympic Committee for 2024, shared her insights into what we could expect during our "In Conversations with" talk series.

The Paris Olympics introduced several new sports, including climbing, breakdancing, and surfing, alongside the return of skateboarding, which had its successful debut at the Tokyo Olympics. Breakdancing, a discipline that gained international competition status in the 1990s, made its Olympic debut. Competitors selected their own hip-hop tracks, creating a fusion of athleticism and creative expression.

The Paris Olympics were particularly notable for their commitment to gender equality, marking the most gender-equal games in history. France celebrated this achievement by renaming sports centres after renowned female athletes and ensuring at least 40% female representation on sports organisation boards.

Sustainability was another key focus. France refurbished existing facilities for the Olympic village to minimise emissions and waste. Medals were crafted using iron from the Eiffel Tower, symbolising France's dedication to environmental responsibility.

Beyond the competitions, Paris was vibrant with activities. Art exhibitions, talk series, and live music events provided cultural experiences for those without event tickets. Some sports, such as the marathon and road cycling, were open to the public, allowing everyone to enjoy the Olympic atmosphere.

The games also celebrated Paris's cultural heritage, with events held in iconic locations like the Eiffel Tower, Grand Palais, and Versailles Palace. This integration of sports and culture added a unique charm to the Olympics, making it a memorable celebration of both athletic talent and French history.