With just a few weeks until the start of the Olympic Games, Monaco's youth gathered around Prince Albert II for the "Olympic Day," sparking their passion for physical activity. Established in 1948, this global celebration of sport and physical activity commemorates the founding of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 1894 by Pierre de Coubertin. This year's event, organized by the Monaco Olympic Committee (COM), held special significance as it preceded the Paris Games.
Following the passing of the Olympic Flame through Monaco the previous day, the top CM1 students from the Principality participated in the event the next morning at the Espace Saint-Antoine. Prince Albert II, president of the COM, was present to encourage the 120 enthusiastic schoolchildren selected from over 420 students. Under the guidance of Olympians, the children engaged in various workshops centered around the day's three pillars: move, learn, discover.
The program included six athletic events focusing on basic movements: sprinting, hurdling, cross jumps, frog jumps, precision throwing, and a mixed relay middle-distance race. These activities were carried out in a spirit of sharing, emphasizing the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship.
The boundless energy of the participants perfectly embodied the 2024 edition's slogan, "Let's Move! And now, let's celebrate!" Yvette Lambin Berti, secretary general of the COM, reminded the young participants of the importance of the Olympic spirit: “Whether you run, play, or make an effort to help your friends, remember the Olympic spirit. Strive for excellence in what you do, build strong friendships, and show respect to everyone you meet.”