This article references the following partners of Athlete Futures Abroad: Loughborough University, Edinburgh University, Cardiff Metropolitan University and Newcastle University. Student-athletes can connect with any of our university partners and explore options overseas by creating a free account here.
16 Gold, 6 Silver, 26 Bronze
The 2024 Paris Olympics saw BUCS (British Universities & Colleges Sport) athletes achieving remarkable success, bringing home a total of 48 individual medals: 16 golds, 6 silvers, and 26 bronzes. From thrilling victories in cycling to record-breaking performances on the track, these athletes left an indelible mark on the Games.
Week 1 Highlights
The first week of the Games was particularly memorable for BUCS athletes, who secured 15 of their gold medals during this period. Sophie Capewell from Loughborough University led her team to break the world record three times in the Team Pursuit cycling event, earning gold for Team GB. At the Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium, former BUCS athletes claimed nine golds across three events, representing universities such as Newcastle, Cambridge, and Leicester.
Week 2 Success
Week two of the Olympics continued the momentum, with athletes setting global bests across various sports. Georgia Bell (University of Birmingham) set a British record in the 1,500m final and won bronze with a time of 3:52:61. The men’s 4x400m relay team, including Charlie Dobson and Alex Haydock-Wilson (both Loughborough University), set a British record and won bronze. Jeremiah Azu (Cardiff Met) earned bronze in the 4x100m relay. Grace Reid (Edinburgh) finished 10th in 3m diving in her third Olympic appearance.
International Success
BUCS-affiliated international athletes also excelled at the Olympics. Paige Madden (Loughborough University) won two medals for the USA. French triathlete Cassandre Beaugrand (Loughborough College) took gold in the women’s triathlon. University of Bath alumna Prisca Awiti won silver in the -63kg category, becoming the first Mexican athlete to earn silver in the sport.
Next Up: The Paralympic Games
The Paris 2024 Olympics will be remembered not only for the thrilling competitions and record-breaking performances but also for the incredible contributions of BUCS athletes on the global stage. Their success serves as a testament to the strength and depth of university-level sports, inspiring the next generation of student-athletes. As the Paralympics approach, anticipation is high for more stellar performances from BUCS athletes, promising a continuation of this summer’s extraordinary successes.
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(Photo by Reuters)