Copenhagen Insights: Local racer Asger Smidt prepares for the 2024 ISA World Championships

Brought by Surf & SUP Danmark, one of the most active surf, SUP, prone paddleboarding and rafting federations in the world and an Olympic association, the Copenhagen SUP will be held on Saturday, 21 September in the morning, just hours before the world’s elite SUP athletes compete on the same course.

In the run up to this unforgettable week celebrating our sport, TotalSUP caught up with Asger Smidt, Danish Sprint SUP Champion and Starboard Team Rider, for some local tips and insights as he prepares for the ISA Worlds.

Photo by Cat Yde

Hi Asger, welcome back to TotalSUP and congratulations on your recent win at stop #1 of the Danish SUP Tour in Silkeborg and your third consecutive victory at the Malmo Ocean Race in Sweden!

Hi! I’m glad to be back and thanks both for having me and for the kind words. The start of this season has been phenomenal, and I’m thrilled to have such strong performances early on. Winning in Silkeborg and securing my third consecutive championship title at the Malmo Ocean Race were significant milestones for me, and they’ve set a positive tone for the rest of the year.

Photo by Cat Yde

We’re less than 90 days from the ISA World SUP Championships in Copenhagen (16-22 September). How do you feel about an event of this scale taking place on your home turf?

I feel great about it! An event of this scale in Copenhagen is truly exciting for me. It’s advantageous not to have to acclimate to new conditions, as I’m already familiar with how everything flows in the harbour and at the Amager Beach Park where the technical races will be held. Knowing the water conditions and how they can change gives me a sense of confidence and readiness for the competition.

Photo by Andreas Maciej Pedersen

Are the ISA World Championships the main focus now – Both your personal and Team Denmark?

Yes, the ISA World Championships are definitely my main focus for this year, especially since it’s my last year competing in the juniors. This event holds significant importance for me personally, and I can confidently say it’s also the main focus for Team Denmark. Competing on home soil adds an extra layer of motivation for all of us, and we are determined to perform at our best with so many spectators and supporters cheering us on.

Photo by Andreas Maciej Pedersen

With the competition being held in Copenhagen, do you feel a greater sense of responsibility or pressure?

Absolutely, I do feel a greater sense of responsibility and pressure to deliver my best performance since it’s on home ground. There’s an added expectation to excel when you’re competing in familiar surroundings with the local crowd watching. This pressure, however, is also a source of motivation and drives me to train harder and push my limits.

Photo by: Ben Reed | ISA Worlds 2017

Team dynamics can play a significant role in competitions. How is the chemistry within the Denmark Team?

I personally think that we have great chemistry within Team Denmark. We have built a strong camaraderie over the years, and we genuinely support and encourage each other. This positive team spirit will be crucial during the races, as cheering each other on can significantly boost our performance and morale.

Team Denmark | Photo credit: Surf & SUP Danmark

I actually had the opportunity to witness the ISA World Championships in Copenhagen in 2017 and see all the action unfolding in front of the Opera House. I can’t wait to be back this year and see the kick off in front of The Black Diamond building. Have you paddled there? What can other participants expect from that location?

Yes, I’ve paddled in the Copenhagen canal many times, and it’s a fantastic location for such an event. The conditions can vary quite a bit. At times, you might encounter high chop, while at other times, the water can be completely glassy. The variability is influenced by factors such as ship traffic, wind, and stream conditions. Participants can expect a dynamic and challenging environment, which makes the competition even more exciting.

The Black Diamond, Copenhagen

We assume you know the Copenhagen’s waterways inside out – Do you have any advice for other paddlers? I took part in the Copenhagen Crossing in 2017 and it was pretty rough to be honest!

Despite the fact that Copenhagen Harbour often cleans the canals and waterways, you should watch out for bikes, shopping carts, and electric scooters that could be lying near the walls of the harbor. The shopping carts, in particular, can really hurt a fin.

Photo credit: Surf & SUP Danmark

You mentioned you’re training all over the Copenhagen area, are you already testing the ISA Worlds race courses? Are there any challenging stretches that participants should know about?

I have been training extensively around Copenhagen and have been testing the race courses. There isn’t a specific stretch that stands out as particularly challenging, but participants should be mindful of the powerful streams. These can be tricky to navigate.

There will be the Fun Explore race on Sunday open to paddlers outside of the competition. Are there any more spots in the city that you could recommend for recreational paddlers?

Yes, there are plenty of great spots for recreational paddlers in Copenhagen. By water, you can see iconic landmarks such as the Opera House, The Little Mermaid, and Nyhavn. Exploring these areas gives a unique perspective of the city’s beauty. On land, there are even more attractions to enjoy, making it a well-rounded experience.

What are the top places (for food and sightseeing) that you would definitely recommend?

For food, I highly recommend Gasoline Grill, (world famous burgers in Copenhagen),  Torvehallerne (food hall and market in the heart of Copenhagen)  and Reffen (Refshaleøen – A historical shipyard transitioning into a vibrant cultural destination) . These places offer a variety of delicious options and unique dining experiences. For sightseeing, Tivoli Gardens, Kastellet, Christiansborg Slot, Rosenborg Slot, and Marmorkirken are must-visit locations. Each of these places offers a glimpse into Copenhagen’s rich history and culture.

What are your long-term goals in the world of SUP beyond the upcoming ISA World Championships?

My ultimate long-term goal in the world of SUP is to become a world champion. Achieving this would be the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Beyond that, I aim to continue pushing my boundaries in the sport. Inspiring others, and possibly contributing to the development and popularity of stand-up paddleboarding.

Photo by Andreas Maciej Pedersen

Thank you Asger – We can’t wait to catch up with you in September!

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