The 2026 Finals in Hanover established themselves as Germany’s largest multi-sport event. From 23 to 26 July, 24 different sports were contested in the city and region of Hanover, including numerous German championships. The Maschsee provided the backdrop for the German Championships in SUP parallel sprint. In the men’s event, Normen Weber secured the title on 23 July ahead of Marlon Daskiran and Benyam Bossak. Anton Birkicht completed the podium in fourth place. The women’s final took place three days later on 26 July. Skadi Langbein won ahead of Vivien Franke and Oda Diestel. Julia Georgi finished fourth. Almost half of the athletes competed for Starboard. Oda Diestel, Frederike Ohnesorge, Vivien Franke, Ole Schwarz, Anton Birkicht, Marlon Daskiran and Lukas Steinwagner all paddle on boards from the manufacturer. Laila Daskiran was absent due to illness, meaning there were three Starboard athletes at the start.
Intensive preparation for the 160-metre race
In the weeks leading up to the finals, Marlon Daskiran focused specifically on preparing for the competition distance. “Over the last few weeks, I’ve been training intensively for the finals. Together with Skadi Langbein, I’ve done a lot of training for the 160-metre course,” explains the Starboard team rider. The training sessions weren’t limited to the competition distance. Daskiran and Langbein also completed sessions over longer distances to make the competition course feel easier. In addition, Daskiran trained regularly at the gym, focusing on improving his strength and explosiveness. “Thanks to the thorough preparation, I was able to go into the race feeling confident and gain a lot of valuable experience,” he emphasises. The structured preparation paid off with a second-place finish.
The atmosphere and organisation were impressive
The event left a positive impression on the athletes. “I really enjoyed the Finals in Hanover. It was a great experience to take part in such a major event and compete against other athletes,” says Marlon Daskiran, describing his impressions. The atmosphere and the large crowds in particular made the event something special. Oda Diestel agrees. “The Finals were once again a wonderful event, superbly organised by the City of Hanover. There were an incredible number of enthusiastic spectators there, who kept all the athletes motivated and cheered them on throughout,” reports the third-placed finisher. The competitions are available to watch on the Sportschau media library. The city of Hanover provided a central venue in the form of the Maschsee, which offered ideal conditions for the parallel sprint.
A high standard in the women’s final
Oda Diestel was pleased with her bronze medal. “In the end, it was enough for third place, behind Vivi and Skadi, who both paddled brilliantly. Congratulations to them both,” she said of the race. The finals provided the athletes with a platform to compete at national level. The event brought together various sports in one venue, allowing spectators to follow several competitions. The organisation by the City of Hanover and its integration into a larger multi-sport event created a setting that went beyond a traditional German Championship. “I’m already looking forward to next year,” said Oda Diestel, looking ahead. It seems certain that the Finals will continue to be held in Hanover.
Results:
Men (23 July 2026):
- 1. Weber Standards
- 2. Marlon Daskiran
- 3. Benyam Bossak
- 4. Anton Birkicht
Women (26 July 2026):
- 1. Skadi Longleg
- 2. Vivien Franke
- 3. Oda Diestel
- 4. Julia Georgi
Stephan Gölnitz
Deputy Editor in Chief surf
