A First-Time Olympic Adventure for Americans: Camaraderie and Cheer in Paris
The City of Light is bustling with energy, and even the Eiffel Tower seems to be beaming with pride. As the 2024 Summer Olympics unfold, the streets and fan zones are alive with excitement, laughter, and a palpable sense of global camaraderie. For many, it’s a dream come true to witness the world’s greatest athletes compete. Among these fervent supporters is a group of Americans experiencing their first Olympic Games, each bringing their unique perspectives and infectious enthusiasm.
Alejandro Cardoso and Long Nguyen, both hailing from sunny California, are middle school best friends now celebrating their 25th year of friendship. Their most recent visit to Paris being twenty years ago, this trip has brought an entirely new dimension to their perspective of the city. Even though their main goal was cheering for USA Gold, Alejandro and Long said that the fan atmosphere at the Games was brimming with “good vibes and good times.” “It has really made us look forward to meeting new people and making new friends,” Long adds with a wide grin.
Their excitement is shared by Sherry Williams from Chicago, whose vibrant personality is as eye-catching as her red, white, and blue nail designs and tinsel-woven hair. Sherry’s laughter is contagious, drawing smiles from everyone around her. Having meticulously planned her trip since February of 2023, Sherry holds tickets to three different events and is determined to make the most of every moment. “There’s so much support for the athletes no matter where they come from,” she observes, noting how fans cheer for winners even when their country’s team isn’t competing. “Everyone here is great and so friendly.”
Despite the competitive atmosphere that accompanies the Olympic Games, she says “There has been a lot of camaraderie. I think everybody is really happy to be here and happy to be supporting their teams,” she says, her eyes sparkling with joy. “Everyone is out here, and we are all competing, but it’s nice to be able to have people from around the world come together,” she continues.
This camaraderie in the fan zones is a pleasant surprise to many and is a stark contrast to any other high-level sporting event one has attended in the United States. Alejandro and Long, who have visited Paris before, find the city transformed by the Olympic spirit. “The sense of community and shared excitement is incredible,” Alejandro says. “It’s different from any other time we’ve been here. The whole city feels united.”
For Alejandro and Long, this is just the beginning. “This definitely will not be our last Olympics,” Alejandro asserts, his voice filled with determination.
In a city renowned for its beauty and history, it’s the spirit of the Olympics that has left the most profound impression on these first-time attendees. Their stories of joy and friendship are a testament to the magic of the Games, where competition and camaraderie go hand in hand.
