Golden leaps and record-breaking steeples: soldiers shine in Paris

PARIS (FRA) - Under the Parisian sky, the eleventh day of the Olympics saw military athletes from CISM member nations making their mark in the sporting arena.

The highlight of the day came from the track and field events. In a spectacular display of athleticism, Miltos Tentoglou, an Ensign in the Greek Navy, soared to victory in the men’s long jump. Tentoglou's leap of 8.48 meters secured him the gold medal, showcasing his exceptional talent and determination.

Ensign Miltos Tentoglou (picture: Team Hellas)

Adding to the day's excitement, Bahrain's Winfred Yavi, a Private in the military, dominated the women’s 3000m steeplechase. Yavi not only clinched the gold medal but also set a new Olympic record with a time of 8:52.76.

In the world of women’s surf, Johanne Defay, a Matelot from France, battled the waves to secure a bronze medal. Defay's performance was a showcase of resilience and skill as she outmaneuvered Costa Rica's Brisa Hennessy in a thrilling contest.

Private Yavi Winfred (picture: Yavi Winfred OLY)

Meanwhile, in the velodrome, the French cycling team put forth a valiant effort in the men's team sprint. Aviateur Rayan Helal, Sergent Sébastien Vigier, and Maréchal des Logis Melvin Landerneau finished just shy of the podium, securing a respectable fourth place after a fierce race against the Australian team.

The track and field events also saw an impressive performance from Switzerland’s Simon Ehammer, a Private First Class, who finished fourth in the men’s long jump with a jump of 8.20 meters. In the men’s 1500m, Pietro Arese, a Corporal from Italy, set a new national record with a time of 3:30.74, finishing eighth in a highly competitive field.

Matelot Johanne Defay (picture: Ministère des Sports)

In boxing, Wassila Lkhadiri, a Sergent from France, gave a strong performance in the women's -50kg category, finishing in fifth place after a series of intense bouts.

Private First-Class Simon Ehammer (picture: Swiss Olympic Team)

The contributions of military athletes highlighted the dedication and versatility of these exceptional individuals. Their achievements in Paris are not just victories for their nations but also a source of inspiration, reminding us all of the incredible synergy between athletic prowess and military discipline.

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)