Up Suping #31. English version

You also don’t miss the most attractive SUP race events in Spain. What is it that attracts you to our country? What is your favourite place to compete or go on a paddling trip?

I love Spain! The people are really friendly, warm and generous and the sun is shining almost everyday! Also the lifestyle is something that we can take as an example: siesta, various water activities, taking time for tapas and wines, and passionated people.

My favorite places to compete in Spain are San Sebastian, Bilbao, Fuengirola (because of the lovely people from Paddle Surf Fuengiroal) and the Costa Blanca Paddle Games.

What does Stand Up Paddle offer you unlike other sports?

For me, SUP offers freedom to challenge myself mentally and physically while also enjoying the peace as well as the battle with the elements of nature.

I believe that other sports can help to make me stronger, fitter, flexible and more focused. It’s so cool to do different sports and to be an allround athlete. Sometimes it’s a bit difficult that I have to choose...

I love crossfit, mountainbike riding, running, climbing, snowboarding and a lot more! Unfortunately I know too that if you want to be a better paddler you have to spend most of the time on the water.

The evolution of the SUP material and the way of paddling are constantly evolving. How do you adapt to it and how do you see the growth of SUP as a competi-tor?

In terms of materials, I believe in the developments of Mistral. I’m testing new materials and give feedback. Mistral is expressive, visible and in demand at the moment.

It gives me a lot of energy and opportunities to see that the Sup sport in general is growing. I’m stimulating people to go on the water and enjoy the battle with themselves and the elements of nature. During the lessons I learn them something about technique, tactics and safety. Giving people attention and let them try different kind of techniques and boards thats one way to get them involved with Sup. The next step can be to bring them with you to a small race event or tour to challenge themselves.

My expectation is that a part of the recreational suppers take the sport more serieus and will take part in some race events.