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 the community support impact Vincent Lindpointner’s motivation and dedication to his goal of competing in the Olympics?
**Interview with Vincent Lindpointner, Aspiring Olympic Gymnast**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Vincent. You’re gearing up for the Future Cup, which has grown quite a reputation over the last two decades. How does it feel to be participating in this prestigious event?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you for having me! It feels incredible. The Future Cup is often referred to as a “small World Cup,” and it’s exciting to compete against the best young gymnasts from 21 different nations. It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase my skills and learn from others.
**Editor:** You mentioned you’ve spent a considerable amount of time training under national coach Michal Zoha. Can you tell us about your training routine and how that prepares you for competitions like this?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Absolutely! I train nine times a week, dedicating up to 28 hours. It’s intense but I love it. Each session focuses on improving my technique and building strength. The coaching I receive is invaluable, and it helps boost my confidence heading into competitions.
**Editor:** With your ambitious goal of qualifying for the Olympics in 2028 or 2032, what steps are you taking to achieve that?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** My focus is on consistent improvement. I review my performances, set specific goals for each competition, and always push myself to do better. Winning bronze at the Junior European Championships this year was a significant milestone for me, and I’m using that momentum to drive forward.
**Editor:** You’ve had notable success at the Future Cup in the past, including a gold with the team in 2022. What are your expectations for this year’s competition?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** I’m looking to leave everything out on the mat. This is my last year as a junior, so I want to make it memorable. I’m particularly excited about competing in the all-around, and I hope to build on my past successes while maintaining that competitive spirit.
**Editor:** It sounds like you have a clear vision and determination! Lastly, how important is the support from your local community as you pursue these ambitions?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** It’s incredibly important! The local support gives me motivation and strength. Knowing that people are cheering for us makes a big difference. I hope I can inspire younger gymnasts just like I was inspired.
**Editor:** Thank you for sharing your journey with us, Vincent. Best of luck at the Future Cup and achieving your Olympic dreams!
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you! I appreciate it!
