After visiting French Guiana and Réunion, the Olympic Flame continues its tour through the French overseas territories. As part of the Oceans Relay, Paris 2024 and the Relay sponsors—Coca-Cola, Banque Populaire, and Caisse d’Épargne—are engaging French citizens worldwide in celebrating the Games. On Thursday, June 13, French Polynesia honored its athletes while showcasing its rich heritage. A highlight of this leg was a collective relay organized by the Tahitian Surfing Federation, led by legendary Tahitian surfer Hira Teriinatoofa. The day concluded with Michel Bourez, another surfing prodigy, lighting the cauldron at the Papeete celebration site.
Shining a Light on French Polynesia’s Treasures
The Flame’s journey to the far reaches of the oceans brought it to French Polynesia, the third overseas territory to host the relay. This visit offered an opportunity to explore a unique cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, from azure lagoons and mysterious caves to rugged peaks. The day began with a nod to the Paris 2024 Olympic surfing events at Teahupo’o on Tahiti island. From there, the Flame traveled northwest to Teva I Uta, exploring the exotic flora at the Harrison Smith Botanical Garden and the serene Motu Ovini by the sea. The adventure continued at Papara’s famous black sand beach, Taiarapu-Est’s breathtaking scenery, and Paea’s turquoise waters. Further north, Papenoo combined black sand beaches, great surf spots, and wild valleys. A canoe ride brought the Flame to Pointe Vénus before visiting the tomb of King Pomare V, Tahiti’s last king. The journey ended in Papeete, illuminating the capital’s sports sites and infrastructure. Starting in Pirae at Parc Aorai Tini Hau, a family favorite, the Flame then visited waterfront spots like Vai’ete Square and Paofai Gardens before heading to the Willy Bambridge sports stadium and concluding at To’ata Square.
Over 120 Athletes and Locals Join the Relay
To celebrate this special day, 122 torchbearers participated, including several Polynesian athletes. Among them was Christian Ti-Paon, a para-cycling champion and medalist in Para Va’a, Antonin Mianne, coach of the French Polynesian equestrian teams, and Michel Bourez, known as « the Spartan, » who lit the cauldron at To’ata Square. Bourez, one of the world’s most powerful surfers, was a fitting choice for the honor. Throughout the day, the public met inspiring figures like Vaimalama Chaves, former Miss Tahiti 2018 and Miss France 2019, known for her love of travel, adventure, and music. In Arue, Ra’ï Anania, a young student with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, carried the Flame, demonstrating his passion for ping-pong and swimming and serving as an inspiration to other disabled youth.
Ravahere Silloux, another Miss Tahiti and a dedicated ambassador of Tahitian heritage and culture, also participated. Rava Sachet, committed to promoting Polynesia, was near the celebration site. Sachet, who organizes the Tahiti Color Fun Run to support local projects, also works in environmental management, striving to protect biodiversity daily.
A Symbolic Collective Relay
The day began with a symbolic relay organized by the Tahitian Surfing Federation, marking the start of this new day of the Oceans Relay. At dawn, enthusiasts gathered at Pointe Fare Mahora, near Teahupo’o, one of the world’s most renowned surf spots. Hira Teriinatoofa, a Tahitian surfing legend and current coach of the French team, carried the Torch as the relay’s captain. Joining him were 23 other relay participants, including para-surfer Toareia Bordes, local bodyboard champion Amy Tauria, and Prisca Amaru, founder of Moorea’s first surf school.
Vahine Fierro and Kauli Vaast, known as the prince and princess of Teahupo’o and representing France in surfing at the Paris 2024 Games, also participated. The event featured champions like Michel Demont, 1994 ISA longboard world champion, and Karyl Maoni, va’a (traditional Tahitian canoe) world champion. Philippe Klima, veteran of the Tahitian Surfing Federation and 2020 world kneeboard champion in the « immortal » category, was also present.
This collective relay showcased the sporting spirit and unity of the local community, setting the stage for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Next Stop: Guadeloupe
On Saturday, June 15, after an eight-day voyage aboard the Maxi Banque Populaire XI, the much-anticipated moment arrives as the Flame touches down in Guadeloupe, known for its lush nature and white sandy beaches. The journey will begin at the Memorial ACTe and continue through Saint-François, Saint-Claude, Basse-Terre, Petit-Bourg, and the Îles des Saintes, concluding the day in Baie-Mahault.
