A triumph of participation: military athletes make history in Paris

PARIS (FRA) - As the curtain fell on the final day of the Paris 2024 Olympics, military athletes from CISM Member Nations have left an indelible mark on the Games. Participating under the motto of Baron Pierre de Coubertin, “The important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win, but to take part; the important thing in Life is not triumph, but the struggle; the essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well,” these athletes have exemplified the Olympic spirit, and their performances have been nothing short of extraordinary.

Vazgen Tevanyan (picture: Armenews)

The last day of the competition saw military athletes give their all across various disciplines. In the Women's Sprint Cycling Track, Caporal Mathilde Gros from France secured a commendable 9th place finish. Over in the Weightlifting arena, Sergeant Crismery D. Santana Peguero of the Dominican Republic also clinched 9th place in the Women’s +81kg category with a total lift of 258 points.

On the wrestling mats, Private Vazgen Tevanyan of Armenia finished 7th in the fiercely contested Men's 65kg category, reflecting the tough competition.

Michelle Gulyás (picture: Magyar Rendőrség)

The Modern Pentathlon, marking its last appearance with the horse-riding segment, saw a brilliant performance by Police Lieutenant Michelle Gulyás of Hungary, who claimed the gold medal with a total of 1,461 points, narrowly edging out Capitaine Elodie Clouvel of France, who took home the silver with 1,452 points. Meanwhile, Corporal Elena Micheli of Italy fought valiantly to secure 5th place with 1,424 points.

The Men’s Water Polo team from Greece, composed of military personnel, finished a commendable 5th place in a tournament that tested their skill and endurance to the fullest. The team included 2nd Lieutenant Stylianos Argyropoulos-Kanakakis, Ensign Ioannis Fountoulis, 2nd Lieutenant Emmanouil Zerdevas, 2nd Lieutenant Aggelos Vlachopoulos, Ensign Dimitrios Skoumpakis, 2nd Lieutenant Konstantinos Genidounias, and Ensign Alexandros Papanastasiou.

Elodie Clouvel (picture: Ministère des Sports)

Reflecting on the entire Games, CISM athletes collectively achieved an astonishing feat: winning a total of 153 medals, including 41 gold, 46 silver, and 66 bronze. This medal haul is so impressive that if CISM were a nation, it would have topped the global medal rankings, surpassing even the United States and China. These accomplishments are a testament not only to the physical prowess of these athletes but also to their mental fortitude, discipline, and dedication, honed through their military service.

While the medals are a significant achievement, it’s important to remember that the true essence of the Olympics, as envisioned by de Coubertin, lies in participation. The efforts of the 757 military athletes who competed in Paris exemplify this spirit.

Elena Micheli (picture: Italia Team)

Each athlete’s journey, marked by struggle and perseverance, adds a chapter to the rich history of military sportsmanship and solidarity. The shared values of discipline, honor, and resilience that define military life have always aligned closely with the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship, a connection that dates back to the ideals of Ancient Olympia.

As we bid farewell to the Paris 2024 Olympics, the legacy of these military athletes will be remembered not just for their victories, but for their unwavering commitment to representing their nations with honor and pride. Their performances have set a new standard for excellence, and they have shown the world what it truly means to be an Olympian.

CISM also extend its deepest gratitude to the CISM Member Nations for their unwavering support and commitment to their athletes. It is through this steadfast backing that these remarkable competitors were able to showcase their talents on the world stage, placing CISM firmly on the map of the global sports arena. Their achievements reflect the collective effort and dedication of not just the athletes but also the nations that stand behind them. Thank you for empowering these athletes to embody the true spirit of sportsmanship and excellence, and for helping them bring honor to the military sporting community worldwide.

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)