By In a heartwarming blend of athletic achievement and personal milestone, French track and field athlete Alice Finot turned her fourth-place finish in the 3000-meter steeplechase at the 2024 Paris Olympics into a moment of love and commitment. Despite narrowly missing out on a medal, Finot created an unforgettable Olympic memory by proposing to her partner of nine years, Bruno Martínez Bargiela, immediately after her race.
Finot, 33, set a new European record with a time of 8:58.67, finishing just 3.53 seconds shy of a bronze medal. The gold medal was claimed by Yavi Winfred from Bahrain, who set an Olympic record with a time of 8:52.76.
In a unique twist on traditional proposals, Finot approached Martínez Bargiela after her race and got down on one knee. Instead of offering a ring, she presented him with the Olympic pin she had worn during her record-breaking run. The pin, inscribed with “Love is in Paris,” symbolized not only her athletic achievement but also their nine-year relationship.
“I told myself that if I ran under nine minutes, knowing that nine is my lucky number and that we’ve been together for nine years, then I would propose,” Finot explained in the mixed zone after the race. She added, “I don’t like doing things like everyone else. Since he hadn’t done it yet, I told myself that maybe it was up to me to do it.”
The proposal was met with enthusiastic cheers from the crowd at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, creating a moment of joy that transcended the competitive atmosphere of the Olympics. Finot confirmed that Martínez Bargiela accepted her proposal, adding another layer of celebration to her impressive athletic performance.
This heartwarming incident highlights the personal stories and emotions that often unfold alongside the athletic competitions at the Olympic Games. Finot’s decision to propose after setting a European record, despite missing out on a medal, demonstrates the spirit of the Olympics – celebrating personal bests and life’s precious moments.
As the Paris 2024 Olympics continue, Finot’s proposal serves as a reminder of the human element in sports, where personal triumphs can be just as significant as podium finishes. Her story has captivated audiences worldwide, adding a touch of romance to the intense competition of the Olympic Games.
While the medal tallies continue to be counted, with various nations vying for the top spots, moments like Finot’s proposal remind us of the individual stories of dedication, perseverance, and love that make the Olympics a truly special event.
