Paris, France — France’s newly-crowned Olympic surfing champion, Kauli Vaast, made waves in the heart of Paris on Friday, showcasing his gold medal in a unique fashion by surfing down the River Seine.
The 22-year-old, who won the men’s surfing gold on his native Tahitian waves at Teahupo’o on Monday, captivated Parisians as he rode the river nearly 16,000 kilometers from Tahiti.
Vaast’s historic victory marks him as the first Olympic champion from the French Pacific island, a feat celebrated by both his local supporters and the broader French community.
The event on the Seine was a testament to his remarkable journey and the blend of cultures he represents.
Trailing behind a boat, Vaast used the small waves it created to navigate the Seine, with the iconic Eiffel Tower providing a picturesque backdrop.
The athlete’s joy was palpable as he proudly displayed his gold medal, his beaming smile reflecting his achievement and the surreal experience of surfing in such a unique setting.
“Surfing in the Seine is great, it’s mega, but doing it with the Eiffel Tower behind you is even more special,” Vaast shared. The experience, he noted, was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, despite the smaller waves compared to those he faces in Tahiti.
Among the crowd of supporters was French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, who joined in the celebration, cheering on the champion.
Vaast’s journey from the vast Pacific Ocean to the historic city of Paris symbolizes the diverse and global spirit of the Olympic Games.
Vaast, who began surfing at the tender age of four, is accustomed to much larger waves on the Teahupo’o reef, known for its formidable and sometimes towering swells.
Despite the difference in wave size, he embraced the challenge of surfing behind a boat on the Seine, describing it as a “unique moment.”
“It’s still a wave, it’s still gliding and I’m happy to have been able to do that at least once in my life,” Vaast remarked. The experience highlighted his adaptability and the universal joy he finds in the sport, regardless of the setting.
Tahiti’s Teahupo’o waves, often reaching two to three meters, provided a spectacular venue for the Olympic surfing competition. Vaast’s victory there was not only a personal triumph but also a significant moment for French Polynesia, a French overseas territory.
He attributed his success to “mana,” a supernatural force in Polynesian culture believed to provide strength and power.
The celebration in Paris served as a fitting conclusion to Vaast’s Olympic journey, bringing his achievement from the remote waves of Tahiti to the bustling heart of France.
His performance has inspired many, showcasing the power of dedication and the magic of sport in connecting diverse parts of the world.
As the Seine’s gentle waves carried him through Paris, Vaast’s presence was a reminder of the Olympic spirit, uniting nations and celebrating exceptional talent.
His golden moment in the City of Light will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the 2024 Olympics, embodying both his personal journey and the broader connection between Tahiti and France.
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