Olympic Kitefoiler Jackson James Rice Dies at 18 in Diving Accident

The young athlete, set to represent Tonga in Paris, suffered a suspected shallow water blackout while free diving.

Jackson James Rice was preparing for his Olympic debut in kite foiling at the 2024 Paris Games.
Rice was born in the United States but grew up in Tonga, where he became a naturalized citizen.
He qualified for the Olympics by finishing eighth at the 2023 Sail Sydney event.
Rice's death is attributed to a suspected shallow water blackout during a free dive in Faleloa, Ha’apai.
He was known for his heroism, having saved lives in past maritime incidents.