Shinnosuke Oka, this year’s Olympic champion with Japan’s team and on the parallel bars, has already been here in the past, as has the Briton Max Whitlock, who also has two gold medals at home. For 20 years now, many of the world’s best young gymnasts have come together to compete at the Future Cup in the TipsArena in Linz. “It’s like a small World Cup,” says Upper Austria’s association boss Helmut Kranzlmüller, not without pride. It was he who came up with the idea for it in 2004, on the 22nd/23rd. The competition, which has grown over the years, will enter its 19th edition in November, with talent from 21 nations expected this time. But the local hopefuls don’t need to hide either.
A few kilometers further down at the winter harbor near the Danube, the gymnasts have had their base camp for several years. And when Vincent Lindpointner doesn’t have something to learn during his high school year, he spends his time here in the performance center under the supervision of national coach Michal Zoha. Much time. Nine times a week, up to 28 hours, to be exact, as the 18-year-old from Leonding explains. And he approaches it every day with great ambition. “My big goal is the Olympics in 2028 or 2032 at the latest,” he says. A thoroughly ambitious and difficult undertaking in an absolutely world sport in which there are many contenders for only a few qualifying places. But the determined Lindpointner has enormous potential, as the Junior European Championships bronze medal on the rings he won this year underlines. Only one Austrian in history had achieved this before him. And at the Future Cup – this year is his last as a junior – Lindpointner has often had a big appearance in the past, won gold with the team in 2022 and is expecting a lot again this year in the supreme discipline of the all-around.
Felix Neumüller is four years younger than him and the Mühlviertler also wants to go far in gymnastics. The anticipation for his first Future Cup is great. “It’s just a cool competition because so many top people come here,” says the young talent.
How does participating in the Future Cup impact Vincent Lindpointner’s development as a young gymnast?
**Interview with Vincent Lindpointner: A Rising Star in Gymnastics**
*Interviewer:* Vincent, thank you for joining us today. As someone who’s truly committed to your sport, can you tell us about your journey in gymnastics and what motivated you to pursue it at such a high level?
*Vincent Lindpointner:* Thank you for having me! My journey began at a young age, and I just fell in love with the sport. The thrill of competing and the challenge of mastering new skills keeps me motivated. I train nine times a week and spend around 28 hours in the gym, which seems intense, but it’s something I genuinely enjoy.
*Interviewer:* You have an ambitious goal to compete in the Olympics by 2028 or 2032. What steps are you taking to prepare for that significant challenge?
*Vincent Lindpointner:* It is definitely a big undertaking! I work closely with my national coach, Michal Zoha, focusing on perfecting my routines and gaining strength. I also learn from past competitions, like my performance at the Junior European Championships, where I earned a bronze medal in rings. Those experiences teach me a lot about pressure and competition.
*Interviewer:* This year will be your last as a junior at the Future Cup. How does it feel to be part of such a prestigious competition that has been a launchpad for so many gymnasts like Shinnosuke Oka and Max Whitlock?
*Vincent Lindpointner:* It’s an honor to compete in the Future Cup. Knowing that many successful gymnasts have participated here is inspiring. Winning gold with my team in 2022 was a highlight for me. I’m looking forward to giving my all once again, especially in the all-around discipline.
*Interviewer:* You mentioned the excitement of competing with top talents. What does the Future Cup mean to you personally and as a young athlete?
*Vincent Lindpointner:* It represents an incredible opportunity to test my skills against the best young gymnasts from around the world. The atmosphere is electric, and it’s almost like a mini World Cup. It pushes me to strive for my personal best while learning from the competition. I can’t wait to see what this year holds!
*Interviewer:* what advice would you give to young gymnasts looking up to you?
*Vincent Lindpointner:* Stay dedicated and enjoy the process! It’s crucial to work hard and set goals, but also remember to have fun and celebrate your progress along the way. Every small achievement counts in this journey!
*Interviewer:* Wise words, Vincent. Thank you for your time, and best of luck at the Future Cup and beyond!
*Vincent Lindpointner:* Thank you! I’m excited for what’s to come!