As winter approaches in the northern hemisphere, the paddling world is gearing up for an exciting new challenge from December 3-8, 2024- the SUP11 Islands Tour in Koh Chang, Thailand. Building on the success of the iconic SUP11 City Tour in the Netherlands, this tropical edition offers, in less than two months, a unique opportunity for paddlers to experience a multi-stage adventure, covering an average of 25 kilometers per day, amidst Thailandâs stunning islands. While the Dutch event takes athletes through historic canals, the SUP11 Islands brings them face-to-face with ocean currents, tropical heat, and vibrant marine life. RitskeMerkus is the visionary founder of both the SUP11 City Tour and the SUP11 Islands Tour. In 2019, he expanded his legacy by launching the SUP11 Islands Tour in Thailand, offering a tropical twist to long-distance SUP racing in stunning island settings. With the aim of making multi-day racing accessible to all, the tour provides an unforgettable experience, covering 11 locations in just 5 days.
Hi Ritske, from the iconic SUP11 City Tour in the Netherlands to the new SUP11 Islands Tour in Thailand – what inspired you to create this event, and why Koh Chang in Thailand as the location?
The SUP11 City Tour in Holland is a special event, taking paddlers through the iconic canals of Friesland. When Daniel and Bruno Hasulyo, from SUP Station Thailand, wanted to create a similar event in Thailand, we were invited to organize it. The first edition in 2019 was a great success, even with a smaller group of participants, it was a true adventure. Koh Chang, with its tropical beauty and varied waters, is the perfect location for this edition. It offers a contrast to the flat waters of the Netherlands, giving paddlers a chance to experience something completely different.
The SUP11 Islands sounds like an incredible challenge. Could you describe the race format and what participants can expect in terms of distance, conditions, and overall experience?
The SUP11 Islands is a multi-stage event, meaning that paddlers will complete an average of 25 kilometers each day, takes them through and around the islands of Koh Chang in Thailand, a national park known for its natural beauty. Each day presents new challenges – some days involve open-sea crossings, while others offer more sheltered routes. The distances vary, but the event is designed to test endurance in tropical conditions. Participants will face heat, potential winds, and changing water conditions, but the stunning scenery makes it all worthwhile. Thereâs also a social aspect – partners of paddlers can join on boats or relax at resorts, making it a well-rounded adventure. And maybe one more thing, to register your partner is only one click on the RaceID form.
How does the SUP11 Islands differ from the SUP11 City Tour in terms of terrain, logistics, and challenges?
While the SUP11 City Tour takes place on flat, calm waters, the SUP11 Islands involves ocean paddling, which introduces more variability – currents, waves, and wind all come into play. The logistics are also more complex, with island hopping and boat support in a tropical environment. Itâs a more adventurous and unpredictable race, but thatâs part of the excitement. Thailand, however, is incredibly well-organized, and the participants can enjoy great food, massages, and the hospitality of the locals.
For those considering taking part, what makes the SUP11 Islands in Koh Chang a must – do event? What do you hope they take away from the experience?
Koh Chang is a paddlerâs paradise. The combination of challenging conditions and breathtaking scenery makes this event special. Itâs more than just a race – itâs an adventure where participants push their limits while exploring a tropical paradise. I hope they leave with a sense of accomplishment and unforgettable memories. As AnneMarie Reichman, the founder of the SUP11 City Tour, says: âYou come as individuals and leave as a family – Ohana.â
Thailand is known for its stunning landscapes and tropical waters. How do you think the setting will enhance the experience for both competitors and spectators?
Koh Changâs turquoise waters and lush islands create a visually stunning backdrop for the race. Competitors will paddle through some of the clearest waters theyâve ever seen, while spectators can enjoy the views from boats or the shore. It adds an element of adventure, making it more than just a race, itâs a complete experience for everyone involved.
As a seasoned organizer and competitor, what advice do you have for athletes preparing for a multi-day endurance event like the SUP11 Islands?
Hydration and nutrition are critical, especially in tropical heat. Coconuts are a great natural hydration source that we provide after each stage. My advice is to pace yourself, donât expend all your energy on day one. Enjoy the adventure, take in the scenery, and donât forget to bring your partner along! The event is not just for athletes but also for their companions, who can join the adventure or relax while supporting.
With its blend of stunning scenery, ocean paddling challenges, and the unique opportunity to bond with fellow paddlers, the SUP11 Islands Tour in Koh Chang is set to become a highlight in the global SUP calendar. For both competitors and spectators alike, this tropical edition of the SUP11 event series offers more than just a race, itâs an unforgettable experience in one of the worldâs most beautiful settings.
At 65 years young, Karl Eugster is living proof that the love for stand-up paddling transcends age. Originally from Switzerland, Karl discovered SUP 15 years ago and has since become a dedicated long-distance paddler, competing in iconic events like the SUP11-City Tour and Chattajack31. This year, he took on the SUP11 Islands in Thailand – […]
In one month, the SUP 11 Islands Tour in Thailand welcomes back long-distance paddler Thomas Schillig for a five-day journey through stunning landscapes and open seas. Running from December 3rd to 8th, the event challenges paddlers with an average of 25 kilometers per day. Thomas, who began paddling in 2011, is known for his work […]
Yster SUP, the premium Swedish SUP brand based in Malmö, has firmly established itself as the leading name for ultra-endurance and adventure SUP boards, boasting numerous endurance victories and now powering multi-day SUP expeditions in Sweden under the SUPdriven flag. Partnering with SUP 11 City Tour, the legendary 220KM (130 miles) SUP challenge, perfectly aligns […]
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to complete the SUP11 City Tour Double marathon?  TotalSUP caught up with Mark Salter, the UK endurance SUP Champion, Guinness World Record Title Holder and the 404 Europe Team Rider (#404eurosquad), to talk about his latest ultra-endurance achievement and a lifelong ambition – smashing the SUP11 City Tour’s […]
Nothing tests an inflatable board better than an ultra-endurance paddleboarding challenge. Throw into the mix untouched wilderness, white water rapids and 1000 miles of paddling and you get the idea. With the recent SUP division victories at Yukon River Quest and Yukon 1000, Yster SUP, the premium Swedish SUP brand based in Malmö, consolidating its position […]
Meet the Starboard Gen R! Starboard Team launches the Gen-R, this highly anticipated board for 2024 is a new breed amongst Starboards already extensive and world class range of race SUPs. There have been a few boards circulating amongst the Starboard Dream Team riders, where they have already been exhibiting amazing performances on them. The […]
The 2023 International Canoe Federation Stand Up Paddling World Championships will be held in Pattaya, Thailand, from November 15-19. The ICF confirmed the Thai beach destination will host the season-ending event over five days of festivities both on and off the water. The ICF will soon announce details of a series of events especially designed […]
The 2023 International Canoe Federation Stand Up Paddling World Championships will be held in Pattaya, Thailand. The ICF and the Rowing and Canoe Association of Thailand reached agreement following this monthâs Congress to host next yearâs world titles on the scenic beaches of Pattaya. The championships are likely to be held in November. The decision to host […]
A former windsurf teacher, Martin Jandke moved to Thailand from Germany when he was fresh out of university. Fast forward 21 years, he now lives in Khaolak where he has founded a beautiful family, a successful board factory, a popular surf shop, and a watersport board brand SUNOVA which has gained world status as one […]
Use of cookies
This website uses cookies in order to make it easier to use and to support the provision of relevant information and functionality to you.
Necessary Cookies
Necessary cookies enable core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility. You may disable these by changing your browser settings, but this may affect how the website functions.
3rd Party Cookies
We use a set of third party tools to provide information on how our users engage with our website so that we can improve the experience of the website for our users. For example, we collect information about which of our pages are most frequently visited, and by which types of users. Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.
Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!