We’re pleased to welcome Femke van der Veen to the Starboard Dream Team for 2026. A committed slalom racer with a sharp competitive mindset, Femke has been progressing steadily through the racing scene, showing strong speed, control, and determination on the course. Her focus on consistency and race execution makes her a natural fit for Starboard as she continues to build her path in high-level slalom and foil slalom racing.
"Joining Starboard feels like recognition not only of my best results so far in 2025, but also of the long-term work behind them."
Get to know Femke better and find out what message she has for upcoming young slalom riders.
Tell us more about yourself. When did you start windsurfing? What is your home spot and how did you discover windsurfing?
I am Femke van der Veen, a passionate windsurfer from the Netherlands. I simply love being on the water no matter the conditions. Foil, fin or wave: if there’s wind, I’m happy! I currently compete in the PWA World Tour in the slalom-X and foil disciplines.
My windsurfing journey started with sessions on the lokal lakes together with my brother Jelle. Those sessions were all about having fun, learning together and challenging each other, and that’s still very much the case today. Up to this day, he’s still my favorite training partner and over the years windsurfing has grown into a real family passion, with all of us active on the water. My home spots are Kornwerderzand and Scheveningen, but big chances you find me on different spots across the Netherlands.
Outside of windsurfing, I love staying active on windless days. Running, mountain biking and road cycling help me stay fit and motivated. I also hold a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering and work as a data scientist, where I focus on making medical predictions to help improve the efficiency of healthcare. This combination of sport and science is also why it’s so motivating for me to represent a brand like Starboard that truly stands for innovation and progress, and values continuous development.
Joining the Starboard International Team for 2026 is a big milestone. What does this moment represent in your journey as an athlete?
First of all I am super happy and proud to join this team of inspiring, displinated and motivated athletes and rest of the team. Last season was my best so far: a podium finish in Slalom X, 4th place in Foil Slalom, and becoming Vice European IFCA Fin Champion. Joining Starboard feels like recognition of those results, but also of the long-term work that led up to them.
Looking ahead to this upcoming season - what are your plans, goals and events you plan to attend?
My focus for next season will be on the PWA Slalom-X season, because it is the discipline I get most enthusiastic about. High-wind, wavy conditions just get me super stoked! Going out on the small sails and small boards (my isconic 60) is my absolute favourite.
My goal is clear: fight for the podium again! Alongside Slalom X, I will also compete in fin slalom events and continue racing in the foil discipline. One of my key goals this year is to further improve my light-wind foil skills, allowing me to be competitive in a wider range of conditions. Last season was my best so far, and I’m more motivated than ever to keep building on that momentum.
Further I am planning to do multiple coaching weekends and clinics. Sharing my experience, helping other progress and enjoying sessions together is something I really value.
What message would you like to send to young riders who are thinking of joining the competition?
Just do it! Competitions are a great way to meet other enthusiastic windsurfers and become a part of welcoming windsurfing community. People are always willing to help, share tips and support each other. Racing also gives you clear motivation and insight into where you can improve. Most importantly, enjoy the process, have fun on the water! And feel free to reach out for assistance, I will be happy to help!
