The third edition of the Laure-Écard international basketball tournament reached a successful conclusion yesterday. On the court at Leyrit hall, the spectacle was present. The Spanish cadets confirmed their country’s dominance in team sports by defeating the French team (51-68). But the main focus was elsewhere.
Insatiable Roja! Terribly efficient on the offensive front, the Spanish logically smothered the French team (68-51). The French young players paid the price for their lack of imagination and speed of execution. Against the reigning European champions, mistakes are not forgiven.
Spain succeeds Russia (3rd in the tournament, due to their large victory against Belgium, 64-30) in the young Laure-Écard tournament palmarès and will defend its title at the U16 European Championships in Hungary, in a few days.
The Duty of Remembrance Prevails
But yesterday, beyond the sporting stakes, the main point was elsewhere. During the closing ceremony, officials did not fail to pay tribute to Laure Écard, who tragically passed away in the spring of 2008.
Richard Papazian, Deputy Sports Counselor at the Nice City Hall, believes that this tournament “is a wonderful commemoration. The deputy-mayor [editor’s note: Christian Estrosi] wanted to react immediately by organizing an event in memory.” He added regarding the competition itself: “There is a high-quality line-up. I hope it becomes an unmissable event for these young people preparing for the European Championships.”
Not without some emotion, Laure’s mother, Sylvie Écard, is pleased that so many people feel involved: “The fact of talking about the tournament and everyone rallying. Despite the context, it remains a celebration. The most important thing is the tournament: Laure should be remembered.”
Laure-Écard Tournament – 3rd day: Belgium 30-64 Russia – France 51-68 Spain
Final Standings: 1. Spain – 2. France – 3. Russia – 4. Belgium
