French Triathlete Cassandre Beaugrand Wins Gold in Paris

In an exciting finish at the Paris 2024 Olympics, French triathlete Cassandre Beaugrand took home the gold medal in the women’s individual triathlon on July 31. The event, held at the picturesque Alexandre III Pontoon in central Paris, showcased an intense competition among the top athletes from around the world.

Beaugrand, ranked number one globally, made a stunning break on the last lap to seal her win, finishing the race in 1:54:55. She collapsed on the ground after crossing the finish line, overwhelmed with joy. «It was the longest 1500m of my life, but I never doubted at the end,» she expressed jubilantly in an interview.

Switzerland’s Julie Derron put in a formidable performance, securing the silver medal with a time of 1:55:01. Great Britain’s Beth Potter, a favorite going into the race, claimed the bronze nine seconds later. Derron shared her excitement, stating, «It was such a great course, great race, and I’m just so pleased to walk away with an Olympic medal.»

The race opened with Flora Duffy from Bermuda leading in the swimming segment, but the competition tightened as the cycling leg progressed. Duffy led by a margin at first but soon faced a challenge as a group of ten athletes, including Beaugrand, formed the lead pack during the biking part of the triathlon.

As rain fell on the cobblestone streets, riders found the course treacherous, with several athletes taking falls on the famed Champs Elysees. The atmosphere became electric as the crowd cheered for athletes navigating the course, creating a mesmerizing environment for both competitors and onlookers.

In the closing stages of the run, only four remained in contention for the medals. Duffy, who had been strong in previous competitions, fell behind, announcing an unexpected twist to the race’s outcome. As Beaugrand made her decisive move towards the finish line, the spectators erupted in support, perfectly illustrating the spirit of home advantage.

Crossing the finish line near the iconic Eiffel Tower, Beaugrand’s victory was celebrated with cheers, marking a historic moment for French athletics as she became the first French athlete to earn an Olympic medal in this event.