The end of seven months of Calvary for the Olympic podium

The Slovenian coast was today the scene of a great moment for Slovenian sport. After almost seven months of strenuous rehabilitation, he returned to the sea withRebra Olympian from ParisKajtar Toni Vodišek. His first contact with the board and dragons after knee surgery was not only training but A symbolic victory in a long battle with your own body and psychothey said from his team.

The path to this moment was long and arduous, marked mainly by mental trials after surgery, which he underwent last November. “Last months have not been easy. Above all, mentally, « Vodišek admitted, adding: » In the beginning, I had a lot of problems to accept reality and to devote myself to the rehabilitation of my knee without overtaking, gradually re -gave up and continued until I could re -kite. « 

But today, all doubts and pain were forgotten. The sense of freedom on the water outweighed all the calculation of recovery. “I could hardly wait for doctors to light the green light. The feeling when you feel the wind and the speed below you is indescribable. I missed the water, I missed this adrenaline, « said 25-year-old Koprcan enthusiastically.

His team also emphasizes that the way back is only at the beginning. The return process will be done gradually and thoughtfully, as the main goal is long -term willingness and complete recovery. « There is a difficult period behind us, but Toni showed incredible discipline and motivation, » explained his coach Ryan Palk. “It was not only a physical return today, but also a psychological impetus. At heart, Toni is extremely competitive and such days represent key milestones for his successful return to the matches. « 

Although he missed most of the season, Vodišek has clear competitive plans for this year. At the end of September, the World Kite Formula Championship will be held in Sardinia, where he wants to stand again by his side. “It’s too early to say what the real result will be in Sardinia. But I want to perform in the World Cup and believe in a solid result, ”remains realistic but determined. “I realize that I cannot overtake things and that after such a long absence I have to trust the process. But in September, I want to show my teeth and, above all, trust my body so I can endure all the loads that the racing week represents. « 

After knee surgery, every movement on the board is carefully planned and thoughtful photo: Matej Družnik

His view, however, goes further, towards the next Olympic cycle. It is planning to leave to the US in the summer, where a test regatta will take place in Los Angeles, the Olympic Games scene in 2028. « In Los Angeles, we want to get to know the characteristics and specifics of the situation that we can expect there at the matches as soon as possible, » Vodišek explained. “The goal is to get there to the games every year and to learn as much as possible and to prepare for the most important moments. We have plenty of time, but I want to take this opportunity, as this year’s test regatta is taking place. «