Ottawa's Kitdapawn E is among the many runners from across the globe who will join the 'Marathon Pour Tous,' a large-scale marathon happening on August 11. CTV News
Kitdapawn E, a dedicated runner from Ottawa, is thrilled to be one of the 20,000 participants selected for the "Marathon Pour Tous" at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This special marathon is set to take place on the official Olympic course following the women’s race on August 11.
At 65 years old, Kitdapawn feels deeply honoured by this opportunity. "It’s a lifetime experience for me," she shared. "I was told we would run through one of the five Olympic rings, and that the Eiffel Tower will be all lit up. This is such an honour."
Kitdapawn has a room in her Ottawa home dedicated to the numerous medals she has won in races worldwide. When asked about her marathon experience, she proudly mentions her 16 previous marathons and this upcoming race will be her 17th.
During a recent visit to Paris, Kitdapawn was warmly welcomed by locals who congratulated her as if she were an Olympic athlete herself. One French woman, who recognized her from a Facebook group related to the marathon, even took her picture and called her an inspiration. Kitdapawn is looking forward to being inspired not only by the athletes but also by the stunning views along the Seine River.
Ottawa’s Kitdapawn E is among the many runners from all over the world joining the 'Marathon Pour Tous,' a large marathon set for August 11. CTV News
However, the Seine River’s role in the Olympics is uncertain due to recent weather conditions. Paris has experienced rain, which has affected the river’s cleanliness. Olympic officials had to cancel a practice swim event due to bacteria contamination, including E coli. This setback is significant given the extensive efforts and nearly $2 billion invested in cleaning the Seine, which had been too polluted for swimming for a century.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and World Triathlon officials are hopeful that the water quality will improve. They are closely monitoring the situation and testing the water to ensure it is safe for the upcoming triathlon swim scheduled for Tuesday. The Seine and other iconic Paris landmarks are integral to the Olympics, with hopes that they will serve not just as beautiful backdrops but also as active venues.
The Paris 2024 games will feature several historic sites, blending old and new. For example, Place de la Concorde, the site of Marie-Antoinette’s execution, will host breakdancing, a new Olympic sport. The marathon course itself will trace the historic Women’s March on Versailles from October 1789, adding a layer of historical significance to the event.
