Adventures abroad from Vice President, Kate Spanke.

As soon as my family and I found out we had an opportunity to move abroad, I started scouring the internet for tickets to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. While our travel schedule conflicted with the main events of les J.O., I found several options for the Paralympic Games: the equestrian events, to be exact. Combining the pride and community spirit of the Olympics, with my favorite sport, all hosted in France? Incredible. It lived up to every minute of the 36 hours we got to spend there… except perhaps the weather.

But we didn’t let the rain keep us down! Because we’re currently based in Oslo, we were well-prepared with rain gear. Yes, the grandstand was wet, but otherwise I found the whole operation to be flawless. From the communication beforehand, to the airport signage and interactive stations, to the transportation and volunteers in coordinated outfits, it was an honor to get to witness it.

The equestrian events were held at the Palace of Versailles, a landmark I had never previously visited, so I was especially excited to see it in person. The arena was set up at l’Étoile Royale, in the farthest side of the park. I was shocked at how large the green space is, pictures don’t do it justice. We spent a few wet hours watching the Grade 3 Individual Dressage Qualifiers, with USA rider Rebecca Hart taking the gold.

From there, we explored downtown Versailles to do some shopping and eat lunch, before making our way to tour the château and grounds. It definitely lived up to expectations: the opulence is dizzying.

To end our day, we headed downtown Paris to try to glimpse the Olympic Flame. I’m sure we all enjoyed the symbolism of the many features of les J.O. and seeing the montgolfier in the middle of Jardin des Tuileries was no exception. After dinner in the 5ème, we headed back to Versailles to repack for the morning flight.

While I wish we had had more time for extra events or sightseeing, I’m beyond grateful that our current base in Europe allowed this getaway to feel a bit more accessible. I’m not sure I’ll have the chance to see any of LA 2028, but there’s no way it can top le joie de vivre, symbolisme, et “je ne sais quoi” of Paris. C’est impossible, non?

How about you? Did any of you also attend les J.O. this summer? Let us know in the comments!

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