Richelieu, France – Coralie, a 24-year-old athlete with DiGeorge syndrome, has achieved a remarkable victory, claiming the French Para-Archery Championship title this weekend. The win, secured at a competition held in Richelieu (Indre-et-Loire), represents the culmination of two years of intense work, adaptation, and unwavering perseverance. This represents a story not just about athletic achievement, but about overcoming obstacles and redefining what’s possible.
The championship wasn’t simply a sporting event; it was a testament to Coralie’s courage. Representing her club, Les Archers de Sède from Saint-Gaudens, as well as the Occitanie region and her hometown of Saint-Étienne-de-Tulmont, Coralie competed with the support of her parents, club president Pierre Ausset, and coach Nadine Eychenne-Fournier. The journey to this point has been one of constant refinement, transforming her technique, equipment, wheelchair, and even incorporating a specialized sight. Every detail, meticulously considered and perfected over the past two years, contributed to her success.
Saturday’s competition saw Coralie face 60 challenges – 60 arrows launched, each a demonstration of her dedication and mastery. From the very first volley, she established a lead she would maintain throughout the event. Her focus and consistency proved crucial, minimizing opportunities for her competitors to close the gap. Precision and composure were hallmarks of her performance, allowing her to stay ahead of the field.
A Champion’s Journey
Coralie’s path to the championship wasn’t without its hurdles. She has spent the last two years completely reshaping her approach to the sport. This included adapting her shooting style, modifying her equipment, optimizing her wheelchair for performance, and integrating a fresh sight to enhance her accuracy. These weren’t superficial changes; they were fundamental shifts requiring relentless dedication and a willingness to challenge herself.
The final score of 584 out of 600 secured the gold medal, a fitting reward for her efforts. But beyond the points, this victory signifies something deeper. It’s a triumph of spirit, a demonstration of the power of perseverance, and a reminder that success is often built on overcoming adversity. As one observer noted, the win wasn’t just about the score; it was about finding confidence, striving for excellence, and, most importantly, rediscovering the joy in the sport.
Coralie’s story extends beyond the archery range. She previously showcased her artistic talent, earning third place at the International Comics Festival in Angoulême in 2023 for her work on the theme of “Little Joys,” in the motor and polyhandicap category. This followed a second-place finish in 2020, demonstrating her versatility and creative spirit. Currently 24 years old, she continues her education remotely through the Claude-Nougaro high school in Caussade, adapting her learning to accommodate her health needs.
This isn’t Coralie’s first taste of success. In 2022, she was crowned double French champion in both indoor and outdoor para-archery. In 2024, she secured a silver medal at the French Para-Archery Championships held in Richelieu, a stepping stone to this year’s gold. That earlier achievement, reported in March 2024, highlighted her potential and foreshadowed her current success. She has been practicing para-archery for six years, utilizing both a support and a wheelchair, demonstrating her adaptability and commitment to the sport.
The victory in Richelieu is a testament to the support system surrounding Coralie. Her parents, Bruno and Hélène Corbec, along with her coach Nadine Eychenne, and the entire team at Les Archers de Sède, have played a vital role in her journey. Their encouragement and guidance have been instrumental in helping her overcome challenges and achieve her goals. The support of sponsors has also been crucial, enabling her to pursue her passion and compete at the highest level.
Coralie’s success is particularly inspiring given her diagnosis of DiGeorge syndrome, a genetic condition affecting the immune, cardiac, digestive, intellectual, and motor systems. Her ability to excel in a demanding sport despite these challenges is a powerful message of hope and resilience. She doesn’t simply shoot arrows; she charts her own course with courage, dignity, and a generous heart.
For Coralie and her supporters, this championship represents more than just a medal. It’s a celebration of dedication, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in the power of the human spirit. Her story is a reminder that with hard work, determination, and a supportive community, anything is possible.
The next steps for Coralie are currently unconfirmed, but she will undoubtedly continue to train and compete, aiming to build on this remarkable achievement. Fans can follow updates on her progress through Les Archers de Sède and the French Para-Archery Federation (FFTA) channels.
