The event took place in Cabarete in the Dominican Republic ©Alfonso Galasso Bueno

Slovenian Toni Vodisek and American Kirstyn O'Brien claimed the respective men's and women's open titles at the Formula Kite Pan American Championships in the Dominican Republic.

Vodisek topped the open men's podium in front of Brazilian Bruno Lobo, while bronze went to Eider Ginyol of Turkey in Cabarete.

Lobo earned the Pan American title as the best placed athlete from the region, with Victor Bolanos of Colombia taking silver and home racer Deury Corniel the bronze.

O'Brien was the standout performer in the women's competition, beating Dutch rival Kimberly Risbergen to the gold medal in the open event.


The American kitesurfer also clinched the Pan American title at the expense of Brazilian Marie Reis.

The continental bronze medal was secured by Colombia's Lizeth Rojas.

Formula kite will make its Olympic debut at Paris 2024 after being selected as the equipment for the mixed kiteboarding event, included as part of the sailing programme for the Games in the French capital.