OLYMPIC QUALIFIER SERIES BUDAPEST
The climbing events were a perfect display of strength, agility, and mental fortitude. Competitors faced two distinct challenges: speed and boulder & lead climbing. In speed climbing, athletes raced against the clock to ascend a fixed route as quickly as possible, while boulder & lead climbing tested their ability to navigate complex routes and demonstrate both power and endurance.
In speed climbing, the competition was intense, with climbers scaling the walls with astonishing speed. Peng WU emerged victorious in the men's category, with a remarkable performance. In the women's speed climbing, Aleksandra Kalucka claimed the top spot, her swift and precise movements earning her a well-deserved victory.
The boulder & lead events were equally captivating, highlighting climbers strategic thinking and technical skills. Sam Avezou dominated the men's category with exceptional skill and stamina, while Brooke Raboutou excelled in the women's event, showcasing her ability to tackle the most challenging routes with ease. The route-setting in Budapest was particularly notable, designed to test not only physical prowess but also strategic thinking, making every ascent a spectacle for the audience.
“I feel fantastic! This climb was a crucial step and an invaluable lesson on my journey to the Olympics. With 6 weeks left to prepare, I’m planning to compete in one more World Cup. My goal is to arrive in Paris at the peak of my performance.”
The breaking competition was electric, combining athleticism and artistry in dynamic dance battles. Competitors showcased their skills through intricate footwork, powerful freezes, and gravity-defying spins. Lee-Lou Demierre took top honours in the men's division with unique style and precision, leaving the judges and the audience awe. In the women's division, Ami Yuasa captivated the crowd with her dynamic moves and charismatic performance, earning her a well-deserved victory. Their wins secured them spots in the Olympic line-up, where they will undoubtedly be among the top contenders. The breaking event highlighted the sport's rich cultural roots and its evolution into a globally recognized competitive discipline.
BMX riders delivered adrenaline-fueled performances, featuring high jumps, swift turns, and aerial manoeuvres that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. The course in Budapest was designed to maximize excitement, with a series of challenging obstacles that tested the riders' skill and nerve. Anthony Jeanjean clinched the gold in the men's category, showcasing incredible control. In the women's event, Hannah Roberts impressed with a stunning performance that demonstrated both technical skill and creativity.
In tandem with the competition, Budapest event highlighted the importance of physical activity and community engagement through the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) "Let's Move" campaign. This initiative aims to inspire people of all ages to embrace a more active lifestyle, promoting health and well-being through regular physical activity. The campaign emphasizes the benefits of movement not just for physical health, but also for mental well-being and social connectivity.
The significance of this campaign was underscored by the celebration of World Olympic Day on June 23rd. This global commemoration marks the founding of the modern Olympic Games and serves as a call to action for people to get moving and participate in sports and physical activities. Events and activities were organized worldwide, encouraging individuals and communities to join the movement and celebrate the spirit of the Olympics. The theme for Olympic Day 2024, "Let’s Move and Celebrate," perfectly aligns with the campaign, inviting people to embrace the joy of movement and the achievements of athletes.
In Budapest, the Let’s Move campaign featured a variety of events, from public fitness classes to interactive sports demonstrations. These activities were designed to engage the community, making physical activity accessible and fun for everyone. The celebration of World Olympic Day further reinforced the message, highlighting the role of sports in promoting a healthier, more active society.
With moments left to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the city is filled with anticipation, ready for what promises to be a sporting spectacle of a lifetime. The streets of Paris, flooded with vibrant Olympic banners, reflect the excitement in the air. Over 10,000 elite athletes from around the globe, representing dozens of different disciplines, are set to compete against the stunning backdrop of Paris’ iconic landmarks, from the Eiffel Tower to the Champs-Élysées. The blend of world-class athleticism and the city's historic beauty ensures an unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators alike.
From June 21st to 23rd, Budapest hosted the last round of the Olympic Qualifier Series. The historic city came to life with excitement and anticipation as the best athletes from around the world competed for a coveted spot in the Paris 2024 Olympics. The events spanned four dynamic sports: climbing, skateboarding, breaking, and BMX, each showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of the competitors.
Skateboarders took to the streets of Budapest, blending artistry and athleticism in a series of jaw-dropping tricks and stunts. The competition was divided into two categories for both men and women: park and street.
In the men's park category, Keegan Palmer secured the win with a flawless run, displaying complex tricks that left the judges and spectators in awe. The men's street competition was equally thrilling, with winner Yuto Horigome showcasing incredible technical precision and creativity.
In the women's park category, Arisa Trew captivated the audience with her fluid style and technical precision in a well deserved victory, while the women's street competition saw the winner Coco Yoshizawa executing intricate tricks with remarkable skill. The skateboarding community in Budapest came out in full force, creating an electrifying atmosphere that showed the sport's growing popularity.