Thomas Dusart
Thomas Dusart: Rising SUP Racing Star on the Belgian SUP Tour and Beyond
A Promising Start to the Season
At just 16, Thomas Dusart is already making a name for himself in the world of stand-up paddle (SUP) racing. His impressive performances this season—spanning the Gla Gla Race, the Fort Boyard Challenge, and the French Championships—have marked him as a young talent to watch. With a solid list of achievements, Thomas has been building his reputation not only on the Belgian SUP Tour but also on the international circuit. His passion and determination are evident as he races through the season, proving his skills time and again in diverse and challenging competitions.
Breakthrough at the Gla Gla Race
The year began with the iconic Gla Gla Race in January, where Thomas surprised himself by keeping pace with the lead group, ultimately securing 8th place overall and the top junior spot. For him, this winter event was memorable for its unique atmosphere, featuring hundreds of paddlers braving the cold on a lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. He later competed in races across England and Belgium, leading up to his first major international competition, the EuroTour in Barcelona, where he finished strong in 8th place.
Conquering the Fort Boyard Challenge
The Fort Boyard Challenge in September marked another milestone for Thomas. After a summer of intense training, he pushed through to achieve a 2nd-place finish, right behind established competitors. This competition was particularly thrilling due to its unconventional format, where paddlers are dropped offshore and must navigate back to shore depending on the wind. Despite unpredictable weather, the event was a testament to Thomas’s growing skill and resilience, which impressed even the experienced race director, Fred, who expertly adapted the courses to suit the conditions.
National Recognition and Titles
On a national level, Thomas is equally proud of his achievements, including becoming the French long-distance champion and vice-champion in technical race last year in Royan. This year, he unofficially claimed the title of Belgian vice-champion, adding another accolade to his growing list.
Testing Limits at the French Championships
In October, Thomas faced a unique test at the French Championships in St-Raphaël. Over four days and four different race formats—long distance, sprint, technical race, and downwind—he tackled everything from rain-soaked courses to sunny Mediterranean waters. Thomas chose to focus on the long-distance and technical races, finishing 3rd overall in the long-distance event and battling his way to 3rd place in the technical race, despite a challenging start. By the final day, tired but undeterred, he took on a downwind course and enjoyed a rewarding finish in 6th place, sharing the podium with France’s top paddlers.
Belgian SUP Tour: A Close Community and Fierce Competition
As someone deeply connected to the Belgian SUP Tour, Thomas enjoys competing close to home and is drawn to the dynamic variety of events the tour offers. The stages range from inland long-distance races to technical coastal courses, sprints, and even downwind challenges when conditions allow. Thomas appreciates the camaraderie of the Belgian paddling community, which, while friendly, boasts a high level of competition. Familiar faces like Kjell De Bruyn and Joep van Bakel, the 2023 ICF World Champion, ensure there’s no shortage of challenge.
Memorable Stages on the Belgian SUP Tour
In particular, the Belgian Championships held near the French border stand out in his memory for their difficult sea conditions, which tested every paddler’s endurance. Thomas also recalls the SUP 4 LIFE event in Ghent, a charitable race for the King Baudouin Foundation. Paddling through Ghent’s canals, with its tunnels and historic buildings, was an experience that combined the excitement of competition with the warmth of a community-driven cause.
Why the Belgian SUP Tour is Perfect for Young Riders
What makes the Belgian SUP Tour so compelling for Thomas is the support and encouragement it offers young athletes. With categories specifically for U14, U16, and Juniors, the tour provides a motivating platform for young paddlers to build their skills and confidence. This year’s events even included prize money, ensuring that each participant felt valued for their efforts.
Balancing the Journey Without Sponsorship
Despite his achievements, Thomas currently manages his athletic journey without sponsorship. He credits his parents for their unwavering support, from long travel weekends to covering expenses for equipment, accommodation, and race fees. While grateful, he hopes that brands will recognize his potential and align with his goals in the future, allowing him to further pursue his passion. Balancing rigorous training with his studies, Thomas is determined to keep progressing without losing focus on his academics.
Looking Forward: Goals and Aspirations
With the French Championships behind him, Thomas’s sights are now set on preparing for the next season, with a hopeful return to the legendary Nautic Paddle on the Seine in December. His ultimate goal is to compete in the World Championships, a dream that, if realized, would mark a defining moment in his budding career.
Memorable Stages on the Belgian SUP Tour
In particular, the Belgian Championships held near the French border stand out in his memory for their difficult sea conditions, which tested every paddler’s endurance. Thomas also recalls the SUP 4 LIFE event in Ghent, a charitable race for the King Baudouin Foundation. Paddling through Ghent’s canals, with its tunnels and historic buildings, was an experience that combined the excitement of competition with the warmth of a community-driven cause.
Why the Belgian SUP Tour is Perfect for Young Riders
What makes the Belgian SUP Tour so compelling for Thomas is the support and encouragement it offers young athletes. With categories specifically for U14, U16, and Juniors, the tour provides a motivating platform for young paddlers to build their skills and confidence. This year’s events even included prize money, ensuring that each participant felt valued for their efforts.
With the French Championships behind him, Thomas’s sights are now set on preparing for the next season, with a hopeful return to the legendary Nautic Paddle on the Seine in December. His ultimate goal is to compete in the World Championships, a dream that, if realized, would mark a defining moment in his budding career.
For Thomas, this journey wouldn’t be possible without the support of his family, his coach, and the community that celebrates and promotes the sport of stand-up paddle. His gratitude and passion drive him forward, and he remains committed to making his mark on the SUP racing world.