Four jockeys - including Frankie Dettori (at left, bottom row) are pictured at Hippodrome de Longchamp, Paris. Tonight a special Bastille Day group of races will be run at Longchamp.
Today is Bastille Day in France. Along with the usual parade down the Champs Elysee, festivities and fireworks, the former hostage Ingrid Betancourt will be appointed a Chevalier of the Legion of Honour. The decoration is one of France's highest civilian honours. French President Nicolas Sarkozy will present the award to Betancourt this afternoon at the Elysee Palace.
Betancourt, 46, has Colombian and French citizenship and received a hero's welcome in France ten days ago. She was freed July 2, after being held hostage six-and-a-half years in the Colombian jungle. Colombian soldiers posing as FARC rebels rescued her and other hostages.
Also on Bastille Day, traditionally a French rider will attempt to claim a stage win for the Tour de France's mountain climb from Pau to Hautacam in the Pyrenees.
Beautiful, now Tara you have to share your dress and hat on such an occassion.
Posted by: Yoli | 15 July 2008 at 21:40
How wonderful about honoring Betancourt. Were you here when she was released? It was non-stop live coverage.
Posted by: jeanie | 15 July 2008 at 19:29
I was thinking of that yesterday!! Somewhere in the middle of the morning it struck me & I said a silent Vive la France! JP/deb
Posted by: JP/deb | 15 July 2008 at 16:44
Bastille Day is always recognized here because it coincides with my mother in laws birthday. Won't forget either one......
I have been following the story of the hostages.......and the release of the beautiful Mme. Betancourt. Her poise and open hearted honesty about some of her feelings and what she had to endure is inspirationally moving...I can't imagine ever surviving the ordeal.
Most definately deserves recognition and a hero's welcome.
Posted by: dana | 15 July 2008 at 15:51
Some traditions are really worth keeping :)
Posted by: devil mood | 14 July 2008 at 18:29