Paris 2024 Paralympics | Para Equestrian: Versailles Bids Farewell ...

By Thélio Courric (from Château de Versailles)

As the final day of Para equestrian events comes to a close, the Château de Versailles bids farewell to its Olympic and Paralympic journey.

Nearly a month and a half has passed since the first Olympic event was held at the Château de Versailles on July 27. On this Saturday, September 7, the Para equestrian freestyle events with musical routines mark the end of an incredibly sporty summer at Versailles.

The competition site at the Château de Versailles is unlike any other. Nestled in the lush gardens, far from the city, riders and their horses take the stage in this serene environment. While the Paris 2024 Games were characterized by passionate crowds, the atmosphere at Versailles was different. Supporters adapted by waving their hands in the air instead of clapping, creating a quiet environment. Between events, the spectators expressed their joy with cheers, dances, and applause.

Music was at the heart of today’s events. From classical to contemporary, and even original compositions, a wide range of musical styles filled Versailles. Some riders added personal touches, like Sweden's Louise Etzner Jakobsson, who performed to ABBA, and France's Alexia Pittier, who chose Charles Aznavour's "For me formidable."

Picture by Alex Davidson/Getty Images

On this final day of competition, medals were awarded across five different categories. The Netherlands' Demi Haerkens and her horse Daula kicked off the morning with a gold medal in Grade IV. In Grade V, Belgium's Michele George claimed the Paralympic title. Midday, Latvia’s Rihards Snikus secured gold to the sound of "La camisa negra" by Juanes. The Americans Fiona Howard and Rebecca Hart rounded off the day, becoming Paralympic champions in Grades II and III, respectively.

For the French team, disappointment came early, as Vladimir Vinchon and his horse Pégase Mayenne finished fifth in Grade IV. Alexia Pittier and her horse Sultan 768 placed seventh.

Picture by Alex Davidson/Getty Images

In Grade III, Chiara Zenati and Swing Royal put in a strong performance but narrowly missed the podium, finishing fourth. Despite the result, Zenati was moved after her ride: “I’m really happy with my horse, and for a final performance together, it was truly fantastic,” she said.