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Since the age of nine, Lolie Osswald has lived her life around sailing competitions. Talented and daring, she joined the French Sailing Federation’s youth development program in La Rochelle as a teenager. But a few days ago, shortly after celebrating her 18th birthday, Lolie announced the end of her competitive career on a so-called “social” network. Her post read as follows: “I don’t know what to write, but after nine years of competition, it’s all over for me. I’m quitting sailing because it’s too financially difficult (…) This French championship was the last in a long series of regattas. I’m sure I’ll feel nostalgic later on.”
“Not an easy decision”
When reached by phone, the young woman confirmed her decision. “I’ve been thinking about it for a year,” she said softly. “It wasn’t an easy decision to make.” Lolie Osswald seems certain of her choice, however. “Sailing has taught me so much,” she says. “How to set goals for myself, to be independent, to never give up. Even if right now, I’m letting go a little… But it’s allowed me to grow, to travel, to see different things. I’ve also gained maturity.”
In her online post, Lolie admits that she didn’t really enjoy sailing “at first” because she “was afraid of it.” In June 2022, at just thirteen years old, she broke the record for the crossing from Antigua to Saint Barthélemy aboard her Optimist (JSB 1478). This solo feat, lasting more than 15 hours, showcased the teenager’s talent and dedication and brought her to the attention of a wider audience. Since then, Lolie has achieved some outstanding results, such as her second-place finish at the 2024 French Junior Championships in La Rochelle on an ILCA4. Unfortunately, sailing is expensive—very expensive.
10,000 euros per year
“Registration for the Pôle Espoir costs 3,000 euros, and then there are all the travel expenses for competitions,” Lolie explained in March 2025 (JSB 1607). Over the course of a year, the budget totals more than 10,000 euros. However, without a sponsor, the sole contribution provided to young athletes by the local government is not enough to cover all expenses: entry fees for certain competitions, travel, and lodging. An online fundraising campaign was launched to provide financial assistance to the young champion. It wasn’t enough. Lolie Osswald thinks of all those who have helped her live her dream over the past nine years. “I’d like to thank everyone who supported me financially throughout my athletic career, as well as those who coached me,” she says.
The young sailor will return to Saint Barthélemy before the end of the year. And then, who knows—maybe she’ll find the desire to take the helm again for new adventures?
