Clare Balding previews the next 16 days of incredible sporting action in France and introduces live coverage of a unique opening ceremony held along Paris's main artery, the Seine. More than 10,000 athletes across 329 events in 32 sports will be aiming to go faster, higher and stronger to fulfil their competitive dream. Before that, many of them will be paraded with their teammates on boats along a 6km route of the Seine. It forms part of a bold and original ceremony, which will reach its crescendo at the Trocadero against the majestic backdrop of the Eiffel Tower.