The Belgian SUP Tour (BST) is making waves in stand-up paddleboarding scene, offering thrilling events that cater to paddlers of all levels. Founded by Vincent Claeskens, BST aims to position Belgium as the heart of European SUP, blending serenity with excitement. Vincent emphasizes the inclusivity and welcoming nature of the sport, with events designed to engage both elite athletes and recreational paddlers.

A Thrilling 2024 Season with BeNe SUP Tour

The 2024 SUP racing season is packed with exciting events, thanks to BST’s robust schedule, including the newly introduced BeNe SUP Tour, which extends the competition to the Netherlands. This tour offers a range of race formats, from Long Distance to Sprints and Technical Races, ensuring a challenge for everyone, regardless of experience.

Upcoming Highlight: Open Belgian Championships Technical Race

Get ready for the second leg of the tour, the Open Belgian Championships Technical Race, taking place on Saturday, 24 August, at the Koksijde Yachting Club on Belgium’s picturesque West Coast. This ocean-style race promises adrenaline and fun, welcoming participants of all skill levels.

Vincent Claeskens explains, “Our goal is to offer a diverse calendar without overwhelming participants, while aligning with major international competitions. The BST embraces both elite and recreational paddlers, with adapted distances. We focus on including young paddlers (Under 14 years old), ensuring they have tailored experiences. We’re also excited to introduce a Club Challenge, inviting teams to compete for the title of best club.”

Top Athletes Join the Tour

One of the notable athletes participating is Kjell De Bruyn, a 12-time Belgian National SUP Champion and Starboard Team Rider. De Bruyn praises the tour’s inclusivity: “We have races for everyone—athletes, recreational paddlers, kids, masters, or Grand Kahuna. From Sprints to Long Distance and open sea races, there’s something for every paddler to enjoy and challenge their skills.”

Event Details: Open Belgian Championships Technical Race

• Location: Saint-Idesbald
• Distances:
  • Elite: 4,500m (3 laps of 1.5km)
  • U16: 3,000m (2 laps)
  • Kids (U14): 1,500m (1 lap)
• Schedule:
  • 9:00 – 10:00: Check-in and registration
  • 10:30 – 11:00: Skippers meeting
  • 12:00 – 16:30: Start of various classes/distances
  • From 17:00: Chill zone + BBQ
  • From 17:30: Podium ceremony
  • From 18:00: Drinks and BBQ

Upcoming Belgian SUP Tour Events

• Sunday, 1 September: Technical Race and Open Belgian Championships Sprint, Hazewinkel (flat water)
• Sunday, 8 September: Open Belgian Championships LD, Kessenich (Long Distance, flat water)
• Sunday, 28 September: Open Belgian Championships Downwinder; Oostende to Zeebrugge. Open to regular SUPs and SUP Foils (Downwinder, open water)

Join the Belgian SUP Tour and experience the best of stand-up paddleboarding in Belgium. Whether you’re an elite athlete or a casual paddler, there’s a race for you in this vibrant and inclusive community.