Kitsurfer JJ Rice died aged 18 a month before his Olympic debut.

Kitesurfer JJ Rice, born in the United States and set to represent Tonga at the Paris Olympics, died in a diving accident at the age of 18 just a month before the start of Olympic competition. His father, Darren Rice, confirmed his son’s death to the newspaper on Monday. Matangi Tonga.

Jackson James Rice was to become the first Caucasian to represent Tonga at the Olympics. His death occurred on Saturday in Faleloaon the island of Ha’apai, in the Tonga archipelago.

According to the aforementioned media reports, JJ Rice was freediving when he allegedly lost consciousness in shallow water. Attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.

“I was blessed to have the most wonderful brother in the world and it pains me to announce that he has passed away,” she wrote. Lily, Sister Rice, in a Facebook post. “Was kite foiler incredible and could win a medal at the Olympics. “He made so many wonderful friends all over the world.”

Rice was born in the United States to British parents but grew up in Ha’apai, where his parents owned a tourist lodge. In December he finished eighth at the Sail Sydney competition, earning him an Olympic berth.

Kitfoiling will become an Olympic sport for the first time in Paris. Kitefoilers compete on boards that rise above the water and can reach speed over 50 km/h.