In an unprecedented move, four horses that played a key role in the modern pentathlon at the Paris 2024 Olympics will be honored with France’s prestigious Bronze Medal of National Defense.
Fly de Vesquerie, the horse that helped French athlete Elodie Clouvel secure a silver medal, is among those to receive the accolade.
The medals will be awarded at a ceremony at the headquarters of the Republican Guard in Paris on November 11, ahead of France’s Armistice Day commemorations.
The Bronze Medal of National Defense, typically awarded to military personnel for exemplary service, has previously been bestowed upon dogs and pigeons during wartime.
This marks the first time that horses will be recognized for their contributions to the nation’s defense and sporting achievements.
Fly de Vesquerie was one of 20 horses provided by the Republican Guard for the Olympic pentathlon. The event, which involves five disciplines, including horse riding, showcased the unique bond between the horses and their riders.
For Clouvel, a captain in the gendarmerie, her victory in the modern pentathlon’s riding event was pivotal in securing her second Olympic silver medal, eight years after her first podium finish at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
Alongside Fly de Vesquerie, three other horses will receive the honor: Dicton de Vesquerie, Dallones des Dunes, and Fast du Pré.
These horses were integral to the success of the French athletes, who benefitted from their training and partnership during the competition. The animals’ discipline, skill, and endurance played a crucial role in ensuring smooth performances during the event.
The decision to award the Bronze Medal of National Defense to these horses highlights the growing recognition of the vital role animals play in both military and sporting contexts.
The Republican Guard’s involvement in the Olympics, providing horses for pentathletes, has underscored the importance of animals in modern competitions, where they contribute significantly to the athletes’ success.
For Clouvel, the medal awarded to Fly de Vesquerie is a testament to the deep connection between horse and rider. The horse, known for its agility and training, was a central figure in her pursuit of Olympic glory.
Clouvel’s win not only marked a personal achievement but also highlighted the significance of teamwork with the horse, with whom she shared the journey toward Olympic success.
The award ceremony on November 11, which coincides with France’s Remembrance Day, will celebrate not just the athletes but also the animals that contributed to their achievements.
It serves as a reminder of the long-standing bond between humans and animals in various capacities, from defense and security to competitive sports.
The inclusion of horses in such prestigious military honors reflects a broader trend in France and beyond, where animal welfare and recognition are increasingly prioritized.
As France continues to host the Olympic Games, the spotlight on animal welfare, particularly in the context of the 2024 Games, is growing, with a special focus on the care and treatment of the animals involved in the events.
The event on Monday will not only celebrate the accomplishments of the horses but also highlight the evolving role of animals in global sports and their symbolic contribution to national pride and defense.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
