The Olympic Stadium celebrated a Catalan day with lots of excitement and intensity in the events prior to the match between USAP and Toulon.
From 11.00 Montjuïc came alive to celebrate a Catalan party with the game in the quarterfinals of
the Heineken Cup between USAP and Toulon, that for the first time was held in Barcelona. This is
possible thanks to the relationship between Barça and the club from North Catalonia.
Thus, singer Cesc Freixas, workshops for small children and for not so small children, and
demonstrations of traditions like the Catalan Sardana were the main protagonists on a very sunny
morning around the Olympic Stadium.
All day in Montjuic
Special buses, trains, and airplanes helped to bring the 55,000 spectators to the
top European competition. Many of these spectators, as well as many rugby fans, chose to spend all
day in Montjuic.
The high temperatures and the many activities led to a great atmosphere from early morning,
and many opted to have lunch in the vicinity of the Olympic Stadium. Catalan flags and USAP jerseys
were the common elements that brought together many of the people around the Olympic Stadium.
Diverse activities
Workshops such as the Catalan donkey or face-painting, among other things, helped
to liven up the Saturday morning. One of the most successful, was undoubtedly the rugby section of
FC Barcelona.
All those who wanted to, could learn aspects, techniques and movements of rugby, thanks to
tips and explanations by members of one of the oldest sections of FC Barcelona.
Official Luncheon
The directors of FC Barcelona, Ramon Cierco and Didac Lee and director of the Sports
Academy, Pere Gratacós, were present at the official lunch, held in Palau Sant Jordi, and attended
by over 200 people . At this lunch, the Catalan Rugby Federation paid tribute to Barça and the
USAP. In addition, the two clubs were presented with a bronze sculpture to commemorate this
historic match.
Parade before the game
Before the game, there were more activities to highlight the Catalanism of the day,
like the parade of the Catalan Federation rugby schools. Twenty clubs paraded their colors before
the game which kicked-off at 16.30.