The Paris Games saw a new wave of young athletes break through, smashing age records and achieving incredible feats. At the same time, veteran competitors continued to impress, showing that with hard work and talent, age is no obstacle. These amazing athletes inspired us all with their remarkable stories, proving that dedication and perseverance can lead to greatness. Here is a list of some of the youngest and oldest stars at the Paris Olympics.
Youngest Competitors
Zheng Haohao: Skateboarding Prodigy
In a whirlwind of wheels and wonder, 11-year-old Zheng Haohao revolutionized the Paris Games with his skateboarding prowess. With each trick, he seemed to defy gravity and push the limits of what’s possible.
Hezly Rivera: Gymnastics Whiz
Hezly Rivera’s gymnastics career is off to a blistering start. The 16-year-old American has already made a name for herself with her daring routines and precision landings. Her fearlessness on the floor exercise is a reflection of her dedication and passion.
Quincy Wilson: Sprint Sensation
A force of nature on the track! Quincy Wilson is a 16-year-old sprinter with such explosive speed and agility she leaves fans breathless. Can she keep up the pace and become a dominant force in the sprinting world?
Sky Brown: Skateboarding Sensation
Sky Brown made headlines at just 13 years old after becoming Great Britain’s youngest-ever Olympic medallist at Tokyo 2020. The 16-year-old skateboarder stunned the world at the Paris 2024 Games with her daring tricks and fearless style, winning bronze in women’s park skateboarding.
Fay De Fazio Ebert: Skateboarding Marvel
Fay De Fazio Ebert, Canada’s youngest national skateboarder, made headlines at 11 and has even won a gold medal at the prestigious Pan American Games. At the 2024 Olympics, Fay scored 51.82 in her final run, but a late fall prevented her from advancing to the finals.
Oldest Competitors
Juan Antonio Jimenez Cobo: Equestrian Legend
With the wisdom of age and the heart of a champion, 65-year-old Juan Antonio Jimenez Cobo guides his horse through the intricacies of dressage. His partnership with his horse is a beautiful display of trust and harmony.
Steffen Peters: Equestrian Icon
This German-born equestrian represented the United States in six Olympic Games. Since his debut in Atlanta in 1996, he has earned two team bronze medals and one team silver. At 59, he continues to show up with exceptional skill and passion for Team USA in Paris 2024.
Andy Macdonald: Skateboarding Veteran
The British skateboarding legend proves that with style and creativity, age is just a number. He’s an inspiration to skaters of all ages, showing that passion and talent can conquer time. Andy Macdonald is still ripping it up at 51!
Mario Deslauriers: Show Jumping Veteran
After a 33-year break, this Canadian equestrian returned triumphantly at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Now, at 59, he participated in the Paris 2024 Games, hoping to win his first Olympic medal in the Team Jumping Event four decades after his Olympic debut.
Pius Schwizer: Swiss Show Jumping Champion
At 62, Pius Schwizer is a seasoned show-jumping competitor for Switzerland. His Olympic journey includes a bronze medal win in 2008. Returning to the Olympics in Paris 2024, he proves that experience and determination grow stronger with age.