Kelly
Cole
Skipper
US National Champion &
North American Bronze Medalist
​
College of Charleston
Born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Kelly developed a fascination for sailing at a young age, influenced by family trips to nearby lakes. She learned to sail in the friendly confines of Optimist dinghies, quickly becoming adept at handling the boat's dynamics. By the time she turned 14, Kelly was racing competitively, moving beyond her local lake to compete in races across Texas. Her early experiences on the Optimists laid the groundwork for her ambition, leading her to make the pivotal transition into the Laser Radial class, where she not only thrived but also achieved multiple top ten finishes throughout North America.
Now transitioning to the skiff, she is hungry to prove herself with Ellie in the 49erFX.
Pursuing her aspirations, Kelly attended the College of Charleston, a renowned institution with a strong sailing program. During her time in college, she continued her journey in the Laser Radial class, competing on both the national and international circuits. She embraced every opportunity to sharpen her skills, driven by her passion for the sport. Beyond her competitive pursuits, Kelly found joy in sailing the VX One class alongside her father, forming a deeper bond through shared experiences on the water. This combination of dedication and family support has been integral to her development as a sailor.
In the spring of 2019, Kelly decided to take a bold step in her sailing career by transitioning into the 49er FX class. It was a decision that has fueled her love for the sport even further. Embracing the challenges of a new class, she has immersed herself in the rigorous training required for high-performance sailing. Every moment spent on the water has been exhilarating, filled with the thrill of racing and the camaraderie of fellow competitors. Now, as she pursues her ultimate dream of representing her country in the Olympics, Kelly embodies perseverance and resilience, proving that dreams can sail beyond horizons, no matter where they begin.
Kelly's resilience and adaptability stand out not only in her sailing endeavors but also in her academic pursuits and extracurricular activities. Having graduated from the College of Charleston with a degree in Business Administration, she leveraged her leadership and teamwork skills in various roles, contributing significantly to her success. Her time in competitive sailing developed her ability to think critically under pressure, allowing her to make quick tactical decisions on the water. Beyond her athletic commitments, Kelly also mentors young sailors in her community, fostering their love for the sport while imparting valuable lessons about perseverance, dedication, and self-belief. Through these experiences, she continues to cultivate a well-rounded skillset that will aid her in her journey towards Olympic aspirations.
The Olympic dream has always been alive.
