13 THINGS Go for Gold at the Olympics

THE 2024 Summer Olympic Games kick off July 26 in the host city of Paris, though several of the 41 event venues are located elsewhere in France.

- Eric Raskin

1 The farthest away-the surfing competition-will take place in Tahiti, part of the territory of French Polynesia in the South Pacific Ocean, 9,750 miles away from the host city. That's an Olympic record!

2 THIS MARKS the third time Paris has hosted the Summer Games. The second-ever modern Olympics were held here in 1900, then Paris hosted again in 1924. Paris and London are now tied for hosting the most Olympics. At the next Summer Games, in 2028, Los Angeles will host its third, making it a three-way tie.

3 BEFORE THE Games begin, there's a monthslong Torch Relay, which is already underway. As always, the relay began in Greece, an homage to the home of the ancient Olympics. Greece also has the honor of entering first during the Parade of Nations, while the host nation enters last. (In 2004, when Athens hosted, the Greek flag bearer entered first, while the rest of the Greek delegation entered last.) The torch was lit in April, reached France in May, and continues to tour the country and its territories overseas. Along the way, about 10,000 torchbearers will carry it through more than 400 towns.

4 DURING THIS year's Opening Ceremony, rather than parade through a stadium, athletes are expected to float on boats down the River Seine toward the Eiffel Tower. For the first time ever, free access will be offered via invitation. Of course, some shelled out for the best seats and views: The last unsold tickets were just shy of $3,000 apiece.