Jean-Louis Fouillard

Jean-Louis Fouillard will carry the Olympic torch. This is his story:

Jean-Louis epitomises the noble values of sport: passion, perseverance, solidarity and commitment. His journey reflects the three key energies of the Olympic torch relay: the energy of sport, the energy of communities and the energy of the collective. Over a span of 15 years, he has distinguished himself as an athlete, competing in about ten marathons (achieving a personal best of 2:52), as well as entering the French national 100 km championship.

He also founded the charity Foulées de l'Espoir in 2003 and served as its president for 20 years. As the president of this organisation, he embodied the energy of communities as well. Each year, this charity organises a road race, which has evolved into a significant event in the sports and social fabric of Fougères and the Pays de Fougères, attracting over 2,000 participants and rallying up to 5,000 people for charitable causes.

Jean-Louis harnesses these energies to organise events year-round with the support of numerous contributors such as schools (e.g. a charity cross-country run and a sponsored walk) and local associations (Zumba evening, fitness evening, dance evening, etc.), attracting a crowd of almost 3,000. Every year, more than 5,000 people come together for these charitable endeavours, spearheaded by Jean-Louis. Finally, he is a vehicle for the energy of the collective. Working as a cook at Fougères Hospital has brought him into contact with the medical field, heightening his awareness of challenging circumstances, especially those faced by children with orphan diseases. His initiatives have raised over €220,000 for 25 different associations supporting parents of children with orphan diseases.