June 1-2, 2019, Northern Denmark – This past weekend Naish’s Casper Steinfath defended his Danish National title for the record setting 7th time on the Maliko 12’6″ X24, remaining the undisputed Danish King of SUP.

It was a terrific event this year in many ways. The championship took place in the northern region of Denmark in a split venue between the city of Aalborg one day and the coastal town of Løkken the next. The venues were epic and despite some crazy Viking weather conditions (i.e. cold and stormy) it brought out the strongest side of all the Vikings as they competed against 30 knot heads winds in the Sprints and Distance Races on day one. “I think most other countries would have bailed and cancelled the race, but because we are Danish…. The show must go on,” said a smiling Casper Steinfath.

On day two the weather broke, providing more mellow conditions for the Technical races. The leftover 1-2 foot waves made for a perfect, yet challenging course, for the 45 competitors. Known for his prowess in short course, technical racing, Casper was stoked to finally show his countrymen and women, what technical racing was all about. “I had been dreaming of days like this to show the Danish community what racing in waves can really be like!! Finally the day arrived and everyone had a blast,” said Casper.

While he competes on the world stage, competing at home in Denmark is always something Casper looks forward to. “Personally I was really stoked to win my 7th Danish Title and with the performance of my Naish Maliko. But what stoked me out the most was paddling with so many strong, humorous and just gnarly Danish Vikings!” said Casper. “I felt in great company as we took on the Viking gods and stormy winds on the long distance race. As we drank the remains of the champagne shower at the end of the event, I knew that I could not ask for better company to compete and celebrate this amazing sport with.”

Also collecting a gold medal was up and comer Caroline Küntzel, who also hails from Caspers home town of Klitmøller. “I was also really stoked to see my new Naish team mate Caroline Küntzel win her maiden Danish Title after fighting bravely in all three disciplines. Caroline is still new to the sport but given her young age (17) and strong passion for the sport I have a feeling we will be seeing a lot more of her in the years to come,” said Casper.

Next event for Casper will also be hosting 140 paddlers and 13 teams for the first ever “Midsummer Viking Challenge” June 22-23 in Copenhagen, Denmark.

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PHOTOS: Henrik Wagner