Denmark isn’t one of the usual suspects when it comes to producing international surfing champions. How does it feel to be the first European surfing champion in your country?

‘It feels pretty surreal. A dream came true, and I still can’t really believe it. Hard work and investments paid off, and it’s an incredible feeling. Coming from a country where surfing isn’t exactly a mainstream sport, I never imagined I’d be in this position for real. Denmark isn’t known for big waves or warm water.. more the opposite! So to bring home a European title feels like a huge step not just for me, but for the Danish surf community as a whole. I hope it inspires more people back home to pick up a board and see whats possible’.

How did you get into surfing? What are the waves like at home? Should we all hit up Denmark on our next surf trip.

‘I started surfing when I was around 15 years, mostly out of curiosity because all my friends in school were doing it and also because I always had a love for the ocean. My first sessions were with my friends from school in cold, windy conditions in my hometown Klitmøller. The waves there aren’t always consistent and most of the time it’s pretty small, so it takes a lot of patience.. But on the other hand, that also teaches you to really appreciate the ocean and make the most of every session. When the conditions line up though, there are some hidden gems. It’s definitely not easy, but I think growing up surfing in Denmark gave me a strong foundation in perseverance and patience’.

 

You have really stepped up your surfing this past year, what’s been your biggest game changer?

‘I think the biggest shift has been in mindset and the way I see surfing for me. For a few years ago I met Toto Idrovo, who is fortunately now my coach, as he is a really good surfer. He’s been helping me a lot. He helped me to always believe in my dreams, be more focused, be more technical, more intentional with my training, both in and out of the water. Apart from that I also spent more time traveling together with him and surfing different kinds of waves across the world, which really pushed me to learn, adapt and grow. And also, surrounding myself with people who believe in me and my forces has made a huge difference’.

Follow Thilde on @thilde.sofie to keep up with her adventures putting Denmark on the logging map.

Photos – Laura Harrington / Tiago Segurado