The creation of the Amicale des Olonnois
In 1964, an association of owners of Olonnois and Bélesbat was created. Regatta and conviviality are already on the agenda. This association ended up dormant.
In 1990, under the impetus of its president Daniel Mornet helped by a few others, the Amicale was relaunched: the colored sails of the Olonnois are again visible in the channel and in the bay. The neighboring ports of Saint Gilles, Bourgenay, Jard welcome the proud canoes.
Luc Favenec succeeded Daniel Mornet in 1994. We see the Olonnois accompany the Bélem, L’Etoile, Le Mutin… They can be found at the regattas of the Bois de la Chaise in Noirmoutier, in Brest 96.
In 2000, the Amicale organized a large gathering of the Old Gaffers in Les Sables d’Olonne, participated in the animation during the first Vendée Globe.
In 2003 George Tiré succeeded Luc Favenec. The number of Olonnois at the Port Olona pontoon will reach fifty. The Olonnois now sail in the Gulf of Morbihan, in the Charentais estuary, in Gironde… The songs have always animated the meetings of the Olonnois: the singing group has moved to a higher regime thanks to a weekly work without concession.
In 2012, Michel Herbert who was already alongside Daniel Mornet in 1990 was elected to the Presidency of the Amicale, a new page will be written, Michel for 4 years will give a lot (time, courage…) to the Amicale. The flotilla will increase to 58 boats and 120 friendlyists with a recognized singing group…
In 2016 Patrice Carré succeeded Michel Herbert with the ambition to continue in the wake of his predecessor and to keep this beautiful Amicale alive.
In 2017 following the resignation of Patrice Carré, Michel Herbert took over the presidency of the Amicale.
In 2020 Loic Urgaux took over the presidency of the Amicale by being very active and particularly available.
In 2024 Alain Skalski is appointed president surrounded by enthusiasts who are committed to bringing this beautiful flotilla of old rigs to life.
We cannot make the history of the Amicale des Olonnois without recalling that one of its priority objectives is the restoration, maintenance and maintenance of these traditional wooden constructions, thanks to the competence and informed opinions of the late Louis Vallée, marine carpenter… who since has equally experienced successors, such as François Gautret and Gérard Brochard who, with a team of dedicated volunteers, compete in the reconstruction of the Olonnois Magalie.
Successive presidents: