Paris 2024: Hug and Debrunner cement Swiss Para marathon dominance
The Para athletics events in Paris 2024 wrapped up with an impressive display of skill from Swiss wheelchair racers Marcel Hug and Catherine Debrunner. Hug won his first gold medal of the Games in the men’s T54 marathon, adding to the two silver and one bronze medals he earned on the track.
“I really wanted to win, and I did. I’m very happy but also very tired. It was my goal to get at least one gold medal here, and now I have a full set,” Hug said to the IPC.
Debrunner also had a remarkable performance, winning the women’s T54 marathon. This victory was her fifth gold medal of the Games, along with one silver.
“Winning this marathon is magical for me. I’m extremely exhausted but thrilled. I can’t believe I won such a tough race,” Debrunner said.
The marathon course took athletes through challenging terrain. Starting in Seine-Saint-Denis, they passed by the Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysees before finishing in front of the Esplanades de Invalides.
“It was really hard with the cobblestones and sharp turns. I was just happy to finish first because everything was hurting. It was very emotional,” Hug explained.
Debrunner agreed, saying, “The course was extremely difficult. I’ve never faced such a tough marathon, especially with the 5-kilometer cobblestone section up to the Champs-Elysees. I was scared I might fall.”
Both Hug and Debrunner used strategies to handle the tough course. Hug started fast to break away from the group and managed to keep his lead. Debrunner also used a strong start to stay ahead.
Winning five gold medals across six races was a huge accomplishment for Debrunner. After Tokyo 2020, where she won one gold in three races, she decided to focus entirely on her sport, quitting her job as a primary school teacher.
“I’m glad I chose to become a full-time athlete. I had great role models like Marcel Hug and Chantal Petitclerc, and I aim to be as successful as they were. I’m definitely aiming for LA 2028,” Debrunner said.
