Corinne Aubert: The journey is as rewarding as the destination

Corinne was a former member of the French national gymnastics team and possesses a professional background as a scientist and researcher. This unique blend of discipline, analytical rigor, and passion, has been a huge asset to her career in race management.

Now, as she prepares for her role as Course Representative at the Youth Olympic Games – Dakar 2026 in Senegal, she shares her inspiration, her pathway through race officiating, and her advice for the next generation.

Finding inspiration in science and sport

Corinne’s approach to both science and officiating is grounded in the legacy of one of history’s most pioneering figures, Marie Curie. Curie serves as her daily inspiration, having broken significant barriers as the first woman to win a Nobel Prize in both Physics and Chemistry.

Curie’s perseverance, hard work, and courage changed the history of science, offering a powerful reminder that determination can overcome any obstacle

“Her story reminds me that determination can overcome any obstacle, a lesson that applies just as much to sailing as it does to Science,” Corinne says.

The pathway to the Youth Olympic Games

After her gymnastics career came to an end, Corinne discovered sailing and was immediately drawn to the officiating side of the sport, guided by key mentors, including her husband, who is an experienced Race Officer. Her journey followed a steady progression from regional events to national appointments, culminating in her designation as an International Race Officer.

“My passion for sailing came after a career in gymnastics. I discovered the joy of being on the water and met key people, including my husband, who is a Race Officer, who inspired me to get involved in race officiating.”

Building experience at premier international regattas like La Semaine Olympique in Hyères proved vital for her development and integration into the global World Sailing community.

“I followed a classical path: starting as a regional official then moving to the national level and eventually becoming an IRO. Along the way, I faced a few obstacles, but I was mostly supported by kind people who trusted me and gave me incredible opportunities.”

Corinne went on to serve as a Race Management International Technical Officer (ITO) at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and at Paris 2024 in a national role as Course Race Officer.

Heading to Dakar: Expectations and Excitement

Serving at the Youth Olympic Games – Dakar 2026 represents a major personal milestone and comes with a clear mission.

“Going to Dakar 2026 brings great joy and the opportunity to do my best to deliver fair, exciting races for the sailors,” she beams.

Naturally, the appointment comes with its share of challenges. The sailing competition will be held in the coastal resort of Saly, well known for its light wind conditions which always present a test for race committees who rely on consistent breeze to conduct fair racing.

“I am a bit nervous about the wind conditions, but I can’t wait to share the moment with the entire official team, which includes officials from across Africa and those appointed by World Sailing. We will work together to ensure great races.”

Advice for the Next Generation

For young sailors and aspiring race officials, Corinne emphasises the importance of teamwork, humility, and keeping the competitors at the heart of every decision.

“If officiating is your dream, pursue it with passion. Ask yourself: what do sailors need to have fair races? Remember you’re never alone: teamwork is crucial. Let your passion drives you to give your best on the water. And always listen to feedback from sailors and coaches to keep improving.

The journey is as rewarding as the destination!”

Corinne Aubert was recently confirmed as Principal Race Officer for the LA28 Olympic Sailing Competition where she will lead a team of Course Representatives responsible for organising the racing of each Olympic Event with a supporting team of an additional International Race Officers.