Tragedy Strikes: Young Kitefoiler Dies Ahead of Paris Olympics

J.J. Rice, a 18-year-old kitefoiler set to represent Tonga in the upcoming Paris Olympics, has tragically died in a diving accident.

The world of kitefoiling is mourning the loss of a promising young talent, J.J. Rice, who died at the age of 18 in a diving accident. Rice was set to be the first Caucasian to represent Tonga in the Olympics, showcasing his skills in a competition that combines the thrill of kiteboarding with the speed of sailing.

The accident occurred on the island of Ha'apai in Tonga, where Rice was free diving from a boat. According to reports, he suffered a suspected shallow water blackout, a tragic event that occurs during underwater diving.

Tragedy Strikes: Young Kitefoiler Dies Ahead of Paris Olympics

Rice's father, Darren, confirmed his son's passing in the Matangi Tonga newspaper, while his sister, Lily, expressed her grief on Facebook. "He was an amazing kitefoiler and he would have made it to the Olympics and come out with a big shiny medal," she wrote.

Born in the United States, Rice grew up on Ha'apai, where his parents operate a tourist lodge. He showcased his kitefoiling prowess at the December Sail Sydney event, landing an eighth-place finish that earned him a spot in the upcoming Paris Olympics.

Tragedy Strikes: Young Kitefoiler Dies Ahead of Paris Olympics

Since securing his spot in the Olympics, Rice had been diligently training and competing in Europe. His tragic death occurred just months before he was scheduled to represent Tonga on the world stage.

Kitefoiling has emerged as a captivating discipline, with riders gliding on boards that skim across the water's surface on hydrofoils. The sport has gained traction in recent years, promising high speeds and aerial maneuvers.

The Paris Olympics will feature approximately 40 kitefoilers competing for glory. Rice's untimely passing leaves a void in the sport and a reminder of the risks associated with extreme sports.

Despite his untimely demise, Rice's passion for kitefoiling and his determination to represent Tonga will continue to inspire aspiring athletes worldwide. His legacy as a pioneer and a dreamer will live on.

* [Matangi Tonga News](https://www.matangitonga.to/2023/06/16/olympic-kitefoiler-jj-rice-dead-after-diving-accident)

* [Fox News](https://www.foxnews.com/sports/u-s-born-kitefoiler-set-represent-tonga-olympics-dies-diving-accident)