In what will be a milestone event for the sport, breakdancing is due to make its Olympic debut at the Paris Olympics 2024. This will be in celebration of perhaps the most important milestone reached by a dance style born in the Bronx yet, which is now set to shine on the widest stage of them all.
From the Streets to the Olympics
Out of the 1970s block parties in New York, breakdancing, or simply “breaking,” was born—a distillation of the streets in toto filled with the energy of DJ-led nights. In very little time, it had become one of the most distinctive elements of African American culture. By the 1980s, it would have people all over the globe getting into gangs like the New York City Breakers and the Rock Steady Crew. This rise continued into the 1990s, culminating in its historic addition to the Olympics.
The Road to Paris
The Olympic journey began in 2018, with an amazing premiere at the Summer Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires. The overwhelmingly exceptional response and sky-high viewer ratings absolutely guaranteed its place in the lineup for Paris 2024. This is the first time a dance sport has ever made the lineup of the Olympic Games.
A Shift in Olympic Tradition
Including breakdancing is a radical move for an organization that has traditionally been wedded to well-established and very traditional sports clubs. The community-driven, informal structure upon which breakdancing is based is quite radical and also different from the model taken by the Olympics. Yet, this move has generally been received with a huge degree of enthusiasm as well as skepticism.
Competition Details and Schedule
The breakdancing battles will be held for two days in a row at different times at Paris Olympics 2024. Competitions start on August 9, 2024 at 4–6 pm with women’s events for the qualifications and 8–10 pm for the final rounds with men’s competitions following a day later on August 10, 2024 at the same time for qualifications and final rounds.
Looking Ahead
Having breakdance in the Olympics is like merging athleticism with artistry, and it brings in a sense of new excitement for the Games. Surely, breakdancing will leave an indelible mark on the Paris Olympics 2024 and authenticate the fact that it really deserves to be on the Olympic stage.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye
