This was one of the prides of Paris 2024: organizing more sustainable games. An ambition which has resulted in the use of existing facilities, reduction of CO2 emissions and various initiatives such as the sale of some of the equipment and objects created for the Games. These were offered at knockdown prices in major sales, an opportunity for fans to leave with a unique souvenir. A report by Lou Ecalle.
The queue is endless in front of Paris City Hall. 2,500 people wait before the opening of one of the last flea markets olympic games. Cécile, blue fur jacket on her back, lies snugly in her camping chair. She is the first in line and to achieve this feat she spent the night waiting for the opening. Behind her, many of them have slept outside and shared thermoses of coffee and cakes.
“ We talked a lot last nightrejoices Cécile, we had a great time, like reminiscing about the games and all that. It’s really nice. Even though we’re cold, there’s a side where we’re really euphoric about it. »
Keep the flame alive until the end
Keeping the flame alive till the end is what these gaming enthusiasts are looking for. “ It was great, the Olympic Games Paralympic Gamesit was really extraordinary Cécile remembers, there was a crazy atmosphere with everyone, international, with all the French, it was really incredible. The athletes were extraordinary, it is a memory of a lifetime. In truth, it left its mark on all of us. »
At 11 o’clock the sale finally opens its doors. T-shirts, jackets, towels in the colors of the Olympic Games, all these items will soon have a new owner. For customers, purchases are limited to ten items. The prices vary – the stick is 1 euro, the volunteers’ jacket is, for example, 45 euro – and are fixed. Some are still trying to negotiate.
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Repeat buyers
Certain products are in particular demand, such as t-shirts, bags or shoes. And among the buyers, there are some who multiply the Olympic sale, like Alain, who is on the fourth time: “ I took K-ways, I took t-shirts, I took a watch and also cups. I got it for 217 euros. »
While almost all buyers leave with a smile on their face, others have not found the products they were looking for. And outside, glued to the barriers, a few curious people watch the performance. “ We arrived at 10, with flowers in our arms, spits this Olympic fan, told ourselves it would go and we learned that people had been there since 16 the day before. So we quickly let it go and we’re just enjoying the show, we’re encouraging people, it’s incredible! The beauty of the Games in all its splendor! »
Thirteen sales have already taken place across France and more than 250,000 pieces of equipment have already started their second lives.
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