The dream was there from the beginning, say Hektor and Kira Kapustikovci, who compete in ski jumping. Already when they were getting acquainted with this non-traditional sport, they dreamed of participating in the Olympics.
The dream finally came true, both will travel to the Olympics in Milan and Cortina.
The last moment was unexpected
While Hektor Kapustík already had the qualification for a long time, it was more difficult with Kira. First came the news that she too should make it to the Olympics, then another that she finally stayed below the line, and finally the third that after the reallocation of places, she can still compete under five circles.
“The last moment was unexpected, a lot was happening. Certain, uncertain… But in the end it was confirmed and we are very happy,” said 18-year-old Hektor.
“I’ve slowly accepted that I’m not going there. When I found out that I was going, I felt like my dream had come true,” added 16-year-old Kira.
Both siblings took part in a swearing-in ceremony with the president before going to the Games venue.
VIDEO: Kapustíková won the first points in the World Cup
She didn’t even want to see the jumps
The road to the Olympics was not easy. “The foundation is hard work,” the siblings think. They also experienced moments when they wanted to give up.
“I have to admit that there was a moment like that. I had had enough of traveling, and the jumps weren’t too much either. I’m very happy that I have the kind of friends I have and they convinced me that I still have a lot to do,” revealed Hektor.
Kira didn’t even jump at all for a while. “When I was just starting out, I jumped for about a year and then I had a two-year break due to injuries. I didn’t even want to see the jumps,” she revealed.
However, a neighbor and friend talked her into going to see the training. “I took my skis and stood on the bridge. Since then, I’ve been diving full time,” she declared.
It is the first season in the World Cup for both of them and both have already won their first points in it.
Hektor finished in 20th place in November in Zakopane, Kira took 17th and 24th place in Ljubljana, Slovenia in January.
There is no room for fear
The view from the diving board is not for the faint of heart. “The first time I stood on the bridge was thirteen years ago. I don’t have many memories, but I remember being scared,” revealed Hektor Kapustik.
“The jumper has to get used to it and then it goes on its own. I can no longer be afraid, because if I was afraid or scared in the air, it could be dangerous. There is no more room for fear,” he explained.
Jumpers are in the air for long seconds. “My thoughts can’t fly. I have to focus on the technique, how it’s blowing and what I have to do,” added Hektor.
VIDEO: Kapustik scored for the first time
Still waiting for legos
His sister does not remember the very beginnings, but she remembers another thing very clearly. “When I first started using the small bridge, Hektor told me that if I started from the highest bench, he would buy me a lego. I still haven’t received it,” she stated and looked challengingly at her brother.
“Because you didn’t let go,” her brother replied.
“I let go. So there you go,” Kira concluded the debate.
“I also remember my first record, sixteen meters,” she added.
She is less nervous at the races than when she started. “Nervousness is not very good. Last year, when I was very nervous, I did two somersaults. But nothing happened to me, I’m here,” she smiled.
They look forward to the food and the atmosphere
Kira Kapustíková will be in action on the middle bridge at the Olympics on Saturday, February 7, her brother starts his Olympic performance on Monday, February 9.
“I go with the goal of making my jump so that it is technically good. The location and distance of the jump will then come by themselves,” underlined Hektor.
“We will try to support each other,” he added.
When asked what they are most looking forward to at the Olympics, they did not hesitate for a second with the answer.
“For food,” Kira shouted. “For the atmosphere,” said Hektor. “For friends,” they then concluded together.
