Mylo & Tije Van Bakel
How the Belgian SUP Tour supports youth competition in SUP
We’ve seen a surge of young SUP talent emerging from the Belgian SUP Tour (BST), which puts equal emphasis on all divisions — with a strong spotlight on Juniors and the Under 14 category. Now a key player in the European stand-up paddleboarding scene, the BST offers a dynamic mix of events that welcome elite athletes, amateurs, and young paddlers alike. It has also served as the perfect testing ground for rising stars like Mylo and Tije Van Bakel.
To say the new SUP bros are on the block would be an understatement – the Van Bakel boys have been part of the SUP scene for as long as we can remember. Growing up under the SUP spotlight, Mylo and Tije have paddled alongside some of the sport’s most acclaimed athletes, consistently landing themselves on the podium.
As we gear up for the Paddle of the Kempen (Belgian Championship Long Distance) – part of the Belgian SUP Tour (BST) and BeNe SUP Cup on 27 April – TotalSUP caught up with Joep Van Bakel, 2023 & 2024 ICF World Long Distance SUP Champion, and proud dad of Mylo (12) and Tije (9), from Wormer, the Netherlands.
These young SUNOVA and Black Project athletes have become household names on the Belgian SUP Tour, showcasing not only talent and drive but also the joy of travelling and competing as a SUP family. We dive into their competitive spirit, family dynamic, and what it’s like to grow up immersed in the world of stand-up paddleboarding.
A year of victories and adventures
Joep van Bakel and his sons, Mylo and Tije, have just completed an unforgettable season on the SUP circuit. From Austria to Slovenia, their calendar was packed with competitions that became much more than just races—they were shared adventures that brought the family even closer. The highlight? Joep’s crowning achievement: another World SUP Championship title in Sarasota, Florida.
the SUP family dynamic
For the Van Bakels, stand-up paddleboarding is more than a sport—it’s a lifestyle. Sharing the same passion has created a unique bond between father and sons. Training together blends seamlessly into family time, turning workouts into moments of connection. Yet, being both a father and a coach comes with its challenges. Joep admits that his sons don’t always listen to his advice as attentively as other young paddlers, but watching them grow stronger with each race is more than worth it.
Racing across europe
Throughout the year, the family competed at standout events like the Lake Rocks SUP Festival (Austria), Planet Baltic SUP Race (Poland), Skrea Strand Paddle Race (Sweden), and the Bohinj SUP Challenge (Slovenia). Each event left a mark—not just because of the racing, but also because of the evolving professionalism of the organizers. Many events are actively improving by listening to racer feedback, making each new edition even better.
The Belgian SUP Tour (BST) holds a special place in their hearts. It offers the best of both worlds: serious competition and a friendly, family-like atmosphere. For Joep, it’s a joy to see his sons develop their skills race after race. The BST remains a welcoming place for newcomers while still challenging experienced paddlers—making it the perfect training ground.
a launchpad for young talent
Joep strongly believes that young athletes should start close to home. The BST is an ideal entry point, where paddlers can find competition at their level and build experience before moving on to international events. It’s where race tactics are honed and confidence is built, all within a supportive environment.
Being recognized in the SUP world comes with attention, but the Van Bakels handle it with humility. They’re grateful for the opportunities—traveling the world, racing in stunning locations, and connecting with a global community of paddlers. No matter how well-known they become, the welcoming spirit of the SUP world always makes them feel at home.
growing up with SUP
For Mylo and Tije, SUP isn’t something they started—it’s something they’ve always done. They can’t recall their first race because the sport has been part of their lives from the beginning. Mylo thrives on the strategy and adrenaline of competition, while Tije lights up when he wins. Together, they bring out the best in each other, even if that means some pre-race tension and shared chaos over gear.
Race days are intense. Mylo confesses to battling nerves, needing space to reset if things don’t go as planned. Tije, on the other hand, seems to find his focus under pressure and loves the intensity of competition. Despite their different approaches, both brothers share a strong will to win—and especially to beat each other.
advice for future racers
Their advice for kids looking to get into racing? Start now, train hard, and do it because you love it. Mylo emphasizes that passion is key—you have to enjoy the sport to commit to the grind. Tije keeps it simple: hard work leads to more fun and better results. It’s all about stepping up and embracing the challenge.
As another season begins, Joep, Mylo, and Tije are more than just competitors—they’re ambassadors for the sport. Whether it’s a local BST event or a world championship, the Van Bakels paddle not just for medals, but for the love of the sport and the joy of sharing it together.