Franck David (born 21 March 1970 in Paris, France) is a French former professional windsurfer and Olympic champion. His full name is Franck Olivier Christian François David.
Athletic Career
David began windsurfing at a young age and quickly rose through the competitive ranks. In 1988, he became the Junior World Champion. His most notable achievements came in 1992, when he won both the World Championship title and the gold medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona in the Men's Lechner Sailboard Class. He became the first French athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in windsurfing.
David competed professionally for a decade before retiring from competitive sailing at the age of 25.
Post-Competitive Career
After retiring from professional windsurfing, David transitioned into entrepreneurship. In 2008, he co-founded Océan Développement alongside fellow sailor Stève Ravussin, a company involved in the design and development of multihull vessels. He has also been involved with the Race for Water Foundation, an organization dedicated to environmental advocacy and the preservation of water resources, and with MODX Catamarans.
Personal Life
David was born in Paris, France, on 21 March 1970. He is of Breton heritage and has been described as a "Breton at heart."
