Paul Bayet
Paul Bayet is an all-rounder in sport. After 15 years of playing football, he has been competing in triathlon at national level for the past six years, with a particular focus on long-distance events. Originally from Lille, France, Paul moved to the Netherlands to pursue his studies in International Business Administration and today works for Nike Football. His international journey has also taken him to Argentina, Switzerland and Portugal, enriching his perspective on the role of sport in society.
Paul’s interest in sport for development was sparked by a volunteering experience at the 2022 South American Games in Asunción, Paraguay. Having discovered triathlon relatively late, he is now committed to raising awareness about the sport among French youth and making its practice more accessible to all.
Destination Triathlon – Swimming, Cycling, Running… Together – introduces children aged 8 to 13 in France to the sport of triathlon through activities in natural environments. The aim is to foster a love of triathlon or one of its disciplines, connect children with local clubs, and highlight the value of community-based sports practice, making the sport accessible to everyone.
In collaboration with schools, the project organises triathlon sessions outdoors, followed by direct links to local clubs to encourage long-term participation and community engagement. In doing so, it empowers children to become advocates for sport and for the Olympic values in their communities.
Launched in January 2024 in St-Avit-St-Nazaire, France, with an initial duathlon session for 20 students, the project is now developing a six- to eight-week initiation programme for spring 2025 in Lille, creating a sustainable impact for young people.