Marie Christine Marie Nguer

Marie Christine MARIE NGUER will carry the Olympic torch. This is her story:

Marie Christine has been an iconic figure in athletics since 1980. Hailing from Senegal, she represented her nation in the African Championships in Cairo as a sprint specialist. After moving to France in late 1989, she poured her heart and soul into coaching, acquiring all necessary qualifications, including an advanced state diploma, to guide athletes towards excellence.

Juggling family and work responsibilities, Marie Christine returned to competition with the Caen club, showcasing exceptional determination. Pushing past 35, she stormed back to claim the French crowns in both the 100 metres and 200 metres and the European indoor gold in the 60 metres, topping it with a world championship title in the 100 metres and silver in the 200 metres.

Her journey encapsulates her dedication, perseverance and undeniable talent in athletics. Now 61, Marie Christine remains an inspirational figure, imparting her sporting and moral values to the young athletes of Dives-sur-Mer athletics school with infectious enthusiasm. Her commitment shines through in tangible achievements, such as securing four departmental champion titles for her athletes in the U13, U15 and U17 categories in the triple jump and long jump.

Additionally, a U13 athlete clinched the Normandy champion title in the triple jump, while a U17 athlete bagged a bronze medal in the regional championships and is now gearing up for the pre-France stage —a historic first for the club. At the same time, Marie Christine has dedicated fourteen years of her life to social inclusion in collaboration with the Calvados Department on behalf of a company specialising in interior design. Her commitment and dedication have helped young people to grow and develop by instilling in them a love for fun and performance. As the Olympic torch lights up Dives-sur-Mer, Marie Christine is set to shine as a standout local ambassador, representing both athletic spirit and community commitment with a burning passion for excellence.