The planks bang on the ground.
Adolescents stamp their feet: “when do we eat?
The day is busy: these 25 young people, aged 8 to 15, do jumps and other "nose wheelings".
They are trying to join the French skate team for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
"I gave everything and I had the best mark," rejoices the Avignonaise Armony after a workout.
Different departments of the Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur region were represented last Sunday at the Marignane skate park.
The Paca League organized the first detection for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
“I would like to be part of the France team, dreams Noé Montagard, 10 years old.
They are really strong, they have style, flow… I will have to train!
If he is selected from among all the skaters in his region, then selected during the interregional selections, Noé could join the French junior team next spring, with 2024 in the sights.
The France A team, led by the Marseillais Vincent Matheron, is preparing for the 2021 Olympics where skateboarding will feature as an additional sport.
"We are one of the favorite nations, behind the United States and Brazil," says Clément Camier, national technical referent.
“We are a little behind in terms of equipment: we have had beautiful skateparks in France for five years;
in Brazil or the United States, it's been more than 15 to 20 years, ”contextualizes Matthieu Foix, regional referent for the South region.
The road is long for Paris
To compete with the big nations, French skateboarding has been structured quickly in recent years, following the classic model of French sports.
The best of each generation go on internship with the France team every three months.
“They do muscle building, they are followed by physiotherapists, osteopaths, a nutritionist.
It's like in other high-level sports ”, guarantees Clément Camier.
They then participate in international competitions.
Is the spirit of skateboarding soluble in this type of federal, quasi-bureaucratic organization?
"Not everyone agrees with that in the community," recognizes Maxime Cherarak, director of a club in Avignon.
For me, we have to go in this direction.
We always asked to see more skate on TV.
We arrive at a time when things are taking shape, but that does not prevent us from keeping the underground side for those who want… And from doing athletics for those who want to!
"
This is the case of Manoa Richter, who distinguished himself on Sunday.
Seeing his childish face and thin physique, you can't tell what he is capable of doing on his board.
“I think a bit about the Games, he breathes.
I'll be 16 in 2024, that's the age when you can start sending power.
“Tom Martin, who is the same age, is already in the French junior team.
The French under 16 champion took part in the detections as an “opener”: he had to show the exercises to the other participants.
"I have a good level," smiles the teenager.
Maybe I'll be able to qualify for the 2024 Games… But there are other skaters who are strong!
The Skateboard Federation now has nearly 2000 licensees.
And the road is long for Paris.
