A Week of ISA Worlds SUP Fun: Copenhagen Paddle Festival Activities for All!

The 2024 ISA World SUP & Paddleboard Championship promises an unforgettable week of activities in Copenhagen, thanks to an exciting lineup presented by Event Manager Viktor Holm Rasmussen of the Danish Surf & SUP Federation. Beyond the world-class competition, the Copenhagen Paddle Festival will offer a diverse array of events to engage participants and spectators alike. From SUP Hygge—showcasing the Danish spirit of coziness and relaxation on the water—to high-energy activities like SUP Action and the Mega SUP Battle, there’s something for everyone. Live concerts, open-air cinema, and guided SUP tours add to the festive atmosphere, ensuring that the city is buzzing with SUP excitement. For those keen to race, the Copenhagen SUP event includes accessible formats for all levels, from beginners to seasoned paddlers. With events running throughout the week, it’s a unique opportunity to experience the SUP culture in a vibrant and welcoming setting.

>> RESULTS 2024 ISA World SUP & Paddleboard Championships

Hello Viktor, can you start by sharing a bit about your background and how you became the Event Manager at the Danish Surf & SUP Federation? What are your primary responsibilities for the 2024 ISA World SUP & Paddleboard Championship?

Hi Mathieu! I developed a growing interest in event management through my education, and this passion deepened when I was invited to help organize the Eremitageløbet / Hermitage Run, said to be the oldest recreational race in Denmark, and possibly the world. This experience led me to intern at Surf & SUP Danmark in 2022 during the European Championship in Hvide Sande. From there, I coordinated the Danish SUP Tour in 2023 and contributed to various other events in Copenhagen. Eventually, I was hired for the 2024 SUP World Championship, where I am responsible for all recreational activities, such as the Paddle Festival, the SUP City Tour, and the Copenhagen SUP event. My goal is to create opportunities that appeal to everyone, even those new to SUP, while also managing a full program for over 500 local school children.

The world championship week is packed with activities. Can you provide an overview of the side events and activities planned during the Copenhagen Paddle Festival? How do these enhance the overall experience for participants and spectators?

Our aim is to introduce SUP to as many people as possible, and the Copenhagen venue will offer a range of activities from Monday to Friday. People can try SUP through concepts like SUP Hygge and SUP Action. We will have SUP yoga, guided SUP tours, concerts, and even an open-air cinema screening. On Wednesday, we’ll host a pub quiz with a SUP twist, and Thursday will feature a talk show with Casper Steinfath. The highlight of the weekend is the Mega SUP Battle, where famous Danes and SUP club professionals will compete on mega SUP boards. Rumor has it that Casper Steinfath himself is putting together a team!

Here is the full programme!

I’ve heard about ‘SUP Hygge’ being part of the event. Could you explain what SUP Hygge is and what participants can expect from this aspect of the festival?

SUP Hygge is inspired by the Danish concept of “hygge” which emphasizes coziness, comfort, and enjoying simple pleasures with others. Participants can try SUP in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with guidance from instructors.

As the day progresses, we’ll introduce SUP Action, where a DJ will play, and people can engage in fun activities on the water, like playing with balls or competing in games. One unique activity is a SUP knight battle using soft-tipped paddles, with the goal of being the last person standing.

Live music is always a big draw at events. Can you give us more details about any live music performance planned?

Yes! As part of the Mega SUP Battle, a local band will perform live, actually on the water, which adds a unique twist. We’ll announce the band next week, but they’re a young, up-and-coming group, and we’re excited to give them this special opportunity.

The event isn’t just for world championship racers. Can you elaborate on the three race formats under the Copenhagen SUP race event that are open to everyone? What makes each format unique, fun, and accessible?

Absolutely. We know that many people in Copenhagen own inflatable SUP boards but might not use them enough or even know they can race with them. To make racing less intimidating, we’ve designed three race formats: the 2 km Easy Explore, the 5 km Fun Explore, and a 9 km route for more experienced racers.

Each race offers something different. The Easy Explore is perfect for beginners, the Fun Explore adds a bit more challenge, and the 9 km route is for those seeking a more competitive experience. Plus, we’ll have live music to keep the atmosphere lively!

The Speed Channel sounds like an exciting feature. Can you explain what the Speed Channel is and how participants can get involved?

During SUP Action in the evenings, we’ll wrap up with a speed challenge, where everyone can feel like a real SUP racer. It’s a fun and accessible way for participants to experience the thrill of racing, especially since it’s happening alongside the SUP Racing World Championship.

Get ready for the 2024 ISA World SUP & Paddleboard Championships:
Official ISA Event Website

Copenhagen Paddle Festival and OPEN race registration:
Copenhagen SUP