Rising Star Marin Hoeboer Defeats Champion Petronella van Malsen at Dutch Championships

At just 14, Marin Hoeboer stunned the field at the Dutch SUP Championships, winning not only the junior division but beating the entire women’s field in the 10 km race, including two-time world and national champion Petronella van Malsen.

Growing up in the Netherlands, Marin has been on the water since age five. After starting with kayaking, she soon picked up SUP and quickly found her passion. When she’s not training or in school, she’s into skateboarding and hitting the slopes in winter.

She’s already raced in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and beyond, and with this breakout win, she’s made it clear: Marin is one to watch.

Picture: @andy_klotz_fotografie

Hi Marin! Congratulations on winning the 10 km long-distance race! You finished ahead of two-time ICF World Champion Petronella van Malsen – how was the race, and what does this victory mean to you?

Thank you Sabe! It was such a fun race, but also really tough because of the wind, especially in the last few kilometers, we had a really strong headwind. That’s also the part where I overtook Petronella. I had a strong start and was leading from early on. I’m super stoked and really happy with this win!

Picture: @marloeskaalsportfotografie

You mentioned that it was very windy, how did you handle the challenging conditions during the race?

Where I live, we often train in windy conditions, maybe not quite as windy as during the Dutch Championships, but still with plenty of wind. I also raced a lot of wintercups this year, like the BeNe SUP Tour, and I think that really helped me prepare.

Picture: @marloeskaalsportfotografie

You ride SUNOVA race boards – which model did you use for this race, and why did you choose it?

I used the Flatwater Faast Pro 14′ x 20″ for this race. I chose it because I usually race on flat water and it’s a great allround board for many conditions. It felt like the perfect fit.

Picture: @andy_klotz_fotografie

What made you choose to paddle with SUNOVA? What do you like most about their boards?

I needed a hardboard, and my coach Joep van Bakel already knew about SUNOVA. We asked if they could bring one to Faaker See last year so I could try it out. I paddled the tech race on it and made it straight to the U16 girls finals – that went really well. I really liked how the board felt, so I knew it was the one for me.

Picture: @benssupphotography

How do you train for long-distance races like this one? Do you follow a specific training program or work with a coach?

Yes, I train three times a week: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, with Joep van Bakel as my coach. I train together with his sons Mylo and Tije, and a few others. On Mondays, we usually focus on long distance. I also help train younger kids who are just starting SUP on Fridays.

Picture: @marloeskaalsportfotografie

What would you tell other young girls who are thinking about trying stand-up paddling or joining a race for the first time?

I’d definitely say: try it! It’s really fun, and if you’re nervous about racing, don’t be. It’s not just about winning. Everyone I’ve met in the SUP community has been really kind and supportive. People always cheer until the very last paddler finishes – it’s an amazing atmosphere.

Picture: @marloeskaalsportfotografie

What are your goals for the upcoming season? Is there a specific event you’re especially aiming for?

I just want to race as much as possible and have lots of fun! And of course, keep training hard to stay Dutch Champion. I’m really looking forward to the Planet Baltic SUP Race in Poland this summer. Also, next year’s World Championships will be much closer to home, so I’d love to race there if I can!

Picture: @marloeskaalsportfotografie

To find out more about SUNOVA, visit their website.

Follow Marin Hoeboer on Instagram.