6 November 2024
 Three months after his Olympic success, Austria's probably sunniest athlete Valentin Bontus is back in action, launching his campaign for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. The 23-year-old Austrian kitesboarder headed to a training camp in Sardinia, where he and his team are testing new gear for the next Olympic Games. The Olympic gold medalist in the sailing discipline 'Men's Formula Kite' has attended several events in formal wear in recent months. Now he has swapped his tuxedo for a wetsuit. Bontus has returned to training with coach Luca Bursic and Italian teammate Riccardo Pianosi, who placed fourth in the recent Olympics. Together, they aim to optimize their kites and foils for speed and performance. Bontus's gear includes two boards, seven kites, two foils, and other essential equipment. He and his team are focusing on evaluating different kites, particularly given the addition of a new supplier since the last Games, although the Flysurfer kite has so far proven to be the fastest. Under Bursic's guidance, Bontus is undergoing a rigorous test program, collecting data on handling, stability, and speed, all crucial for improving his strength and endurance. Looking ahead, Bontus has planned two additional training camps in early 2025 to familiarize himself with Long Beach, the new Olympic venue. Image: Austrian Olympic gold medalist Valentin Bontus in action. Photo: © World Sailing / Sander van der Borch. |
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