Photo by Patrick Turelinckx
The Belgian SUP Tour 2025 got off to a strong and dynamic start with the Paddle of the Kempen, an event that kicked off the new season in style. Thanks to the tireless efforts of its founder, Vincent Claeskens, the Tour continues to grow in strength and hype. In recent years, the Belgian SUP Tour (BST) has established itself as a key player on the European stand-up paddleboarding scene, offering a vibrant mix of events that welcome elite athletes, passionate amateurs, and young paddlers alike. For Claeskens, it’s a mission rooted in community, progression, and a deep love for the sport.
Photo by Patrick Turelinckx
Set in the picturesque waterways of the Kempen, the race offered perfect early-season conditions and drew an enthusiastic turnout of both competitive and recreational paddlers. While not part of the Belgian Championship, the race delivered top-tier performances and fierce competition.
In the men’s elite category, Kjell De Bruyn, Antwerp based 12-time Belgian National SUP Champion, Starboard Team Rider and Coach, delivered a commanding performance, establishing a clear lead early and extending it throughout the race to secure a well-deserved victory.
Photo by Patrick Turelinckx
Kjell De Bruyn said: “It has been great racing in the Kempen. Amazing to see some young guns attacking the pecking order. Big shout out to the organisation for bringing our Belgian paddling community together in such a great event. I’m really looking forward to do some technical racing at the next stop of the Belgian SUP Tour, the Northsea SUP Classic.”
Photo by Patrick Turelinckx
On the women’s side, Loranne Vleminckx , the 15-year-old rising star from Mol, Belgium, demonstrated similar dominance, paddling with precision and power to cross the line far ahead of her challengers.
Loranne Vleminckx said: “I really enjoyed the paddle in the Kempen. The weather was great, and the organization was excellent. The competition was also a lot of fun! The next races I’ll participate in are Rondje Haarlem and the NK SUPTOUR in the Netherlands. I’ll also be at The Lake Rocks Festival in Austria.”
Photo by Patrick Turelinckx
The event served as a vibrant season opener, reconnecting the SUP community after the off-season and setting an upbeat tone for the races to come. The supportive atmosphere, seamless organisation, and participation across age groups highlighted the inclusive spirit of the Belgian SUP Tour.
With the Kempen race in the books, all eyes now turn to Blankenberge, where anticipation is building for the next showdown. This coastal stop brings a unique twist: a Mass Start followed by a Pursuit Race — a true test of strategy, endurance, and head-to-head grit.
Photo by Patrick Turelinckx
Grand Masters M/F Podiums:
Men:
Women:
Grand Kahunas M/F Podiums:
Men:
Women:
NEW for 2025! 8 June – TR Beachclub Blankenberge – The BST team is shaking things up at the Technical Race in Blankenberge with a brand-new format: a mass start followed by a pursuit race. Expect action, strategy, and a whole lot of excitement on the water!
29 June – Belgian Championship Technical Race (Koksijde) – BST + BeNe SUP Cup
30 August – Belgian Championship Ultra Long Distance (Lacs de l’Eau d’Heure) – Belgian SUP Tour (BST) + Double 10 Challenge
6 September – Belgian Championship Sprint + TR Hazewinkel – BST
21 September – Long Distance Nieuwpoort – BST + BeNe SUP Cup
14 December – SUP4Life (Long Distance) – BST
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