Dirk de Beuf
Dirk de Beuf: An Inspiring Comeback in the SUP World
Returning to the Water: From Windsurfing to Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Dirk de Beuf, a Belgian windsurfer and SUP athlete from Ninove, has made waves with his remarkable comeback in the world of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Although windsurfing remains his first love, SUP offers Dirk a way to stay connected to the water without the need for a long drive to the coast. Since his first encounter with SUP in 2013, he has become a mainstay in the Belgian SUP Tour (BST), consistently landing on the podium.
The Beginning of a Competitive Journey
In the summer of 2013, during a period of calm winds, Dirk’s friends persuaded him to try SUP in Ghent. Initially skeptical, he found the sport surprisingly challenging and addictive. Just two weeks later, he placed third at the Belgian Championships, igniting his passion for competitive SUP.
Surviving and Recovering: A Life-Changing Moment
On September 8, 2021, Dirk suffered a heart attack during the iconic SUP 11-City Tour. After covering 20 kilometers, he was forced to withdraw, but thanks to rapid medical assistance, he recovered without lasting effects. Only eighteen days later, Dirk was back on his SUP board at a BST race as a spectator, determined to return to competition. That moment gave him the confidence to keep pushing forward.
Back on Top: Performance and Dedication
Despite the challenges of recovery, Dirk continues to surprise with his achievements. He remains at the top of his age category in the Grand Kahuna races for athletes over 50. Although he has less time for training, he notes the overall standard in the sport is rising, with more athletes improving through coaching and dedicated training.
The Belgian SUP Tour: More Than Just a Competition
Dirk sees the Belgian SUP Tour as a unique event. Thanks to the efforts of Vincent Claeskens, the BST offers a full calendar of races and disciplines for both professional and recreational participants. The open nature of the BST also attracts international competitors, raising the level further and adding excitement to the races.
A Place for Everyone: SUP Clubs and Community in Belgium
During his recovery, Dirk founded his own mobile SUP school, Dendersup.be, active on the river Dender. He encourages people to enjoy water sports in nature and organizes regular SUP Clean-Up days to keep the river clean and prevent waste from reaching the sea.
Upcoming Stops in the Belgian SUP Tour
On December 15, the final race of the season, the SUP 4 Life race in Ghent, will take place, a long-distance course through the city’s historic center. Dirk also participates in additional challenges like the SUP 11-City Tour and the “l’Enfer de l’Ouest,” a 110 km ultramarathon in Brittany, where he and 30 others tackled challenging currents and numerous locks.
On the Road to New Adventures
With each challenge, Dirk reinforces his love for the sport and his determination to push the limits of his endurance. His story remains an inspiration and testament to the power of perseverance and passion. Follow Dirk and the Belgian SUP Tour for more adventures and updates on the SUP world in Belgium.