French 'Mama Team' Win Bronze in 49er FX Sailing at Paris 2024, Celebrate with Marriage Proposals
August 2, 2024
French sailors Charline Picon and Sarah Steyaert clinched a bronze medal in the 49er FX sailing event at the Paris 2024 Olympics, marking the 28th medal for the French delegation.
The duo achieved this feat in Marseille after placing sixth in the Medal Race, which was delayed multiple times before finally taking place.
Picon and Steyaert, known as the 'Mama Team', have faced numerous challenges since the Tokyo Games, including coaching changes and injuries, yet they persevered and secured a vice-champion title in Europe earlier this year.
During the medal race, Picon recalled a dream about winning bronze, which inspired the pair throughout the competition.
Both athletes emphasized the crucial support from their families in pursuing their Olympic dreams while balancing motherhood.
Following their victory, both women decided to savor the moment and indicated they do not plan to return to competitive sailing.
The medal ceremony was especially memorable, featuring simultaneous marriage proposals from their partners, adding a personal celebration to their athletic achievement.
Picon expressed immense happiness, stating that the bronze felt as fulfilling as her previous gold medal win in Rio, largely due to the support from their families.
The emotional day culminated in joy and celebration, with Picon's brother traveling from Chamonix to support her during the postponed event.
Sarah Steyaert, a mother of two, made a remarkable return to high-level sport after a five-year break following her second maternity leave.
Charline Picon, who has previously won Olympic gold and silver in windsurfing, is also a mother to a seven-year-old daughter and has balanced her professional and personal life adeptly.
Summary based on 8 sources