Experiencing the Paris 2024 Olympics: A Fan’s Perspective

Bonjour, Fast and Female!

I was fortunate enough to write this in the beautiful and lively 18th arrondissement in Paris, France during the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. Throughout my time in Paris, I experienced all that the city and the summer games had to offer, from the well-thought-out transit to the live karaoke in the Stade de France. This Olympic Games was truly one for the memory book!

For those wondering who I am, my name is Olivia and I have the distinct pleasure of sitting on the Board of Directors of Fast and Female, which I have been a part of over the past year. With a passion for girls and women in sport, I believe deeply in our mission and changing the sport landscape for the better. With previous work experience in sport philanthropy, Paris will be the second Olympic Games I have attended – but is the first one I attended as a spectator! 

I am not sure I can fully explain the vibrancy and enthusiasm of the city over the past few days. No matter where you are, it feels like a full Olympic takeover! The volunteers are constantly dancing and singing (regardless of the extreme heat or time of day!) and the branding that is on every surface gives the vibe that you are living in the Games, rather than just experiencing them.

Canadian women athletes dominated the Olympic Games this year with 17 of the 27 medals won this year by women. So, I couldn’t be more honored to have witnessed some of these amazing moments in person!

Two events stuck out to me the most – swimming and athletics. 

It’s no surprise that Summer McIntosh dominated the pool. However, it was not her speed or talent that sticks out to me the most; it’s her sportsmanship and the love of her sport that make her even more worthy of her medals. Don’t get me wrong, I can’t even fathom how fast she is. When you then watch her interact with other athletes and the media, it makes me incredibly proud that Summer represents Canada.

The next day in Athletics, Audrey Leduc competed in the 100m semi-final. With a time of 11.10, she broke the top 15. Although she didn’t make it into the final, it was another “ah-ha” moment for me. There is nothing quite like seeing a 100m race! It is over in the blink of an eye, yet you still watch every millisecond as if it’s a marathon. You could barely hear the announcers as the Stade de France became pure chaos as every person cheered on each athlete, regardless of their home country. 

In fact, one of my favourite moments of the trip was a break between events when the entire stadium started singing “Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien” by Edith Piaf.

Fast and Females believes in empowering girls through sport, physical activity, and education.  After having the opportunity to experience Paris 2024 first-hand, this mission means more to me than ever! 

It’s a prime example of the importance of supporting our girls in sport and empowering them to chase after their dreams – and it starts with representation, viewing women like them achieving their goals on the world stage. 

Fast and Female helps to instil this and provide girls across Canada with the opportunity to try different sports and learn valuable leadership skills along the way.

As a registered Canadian charity, we rely on the generosity of donors. If you are interested in supporting our mission and helping share the power of sport with girls across Canada, please consider donating today by making a one-time or monthly contribution.

About Our Author

Olivia Oldfield is a philanthropy professional who specializes in donor relations, fund management, and communications. With a passion for sport and the impact it has on Canadians’ lives, Olivia spent a number of years with the Canadian Olympic Foundation. She enjoys supporting the next generations of philanthropy professionals through guest lecturing at higher-ed institutions. Olivia resides in Peterborough, Ontario where she spends her free time enjoying cottage country, golfing and spending time with her family.