Mark-Jan DIELEMANS (Netherlands, living in England).

Originally from the Netherlands and now living for 16 years in Bristol, Great Britain with his wife and two teenage children. He bought his first “expedition” kayak when he was 17 and paddled through the canals of Amsterdam. Soon did bigger trips on the IJselmeer, Waden- and Northsea and became a Seakayak coach. He soon developed a passion for the “open” canoe and started in early 1998 the first European Canoe Symposium which he ran for over 10 years. He became the first British Canoeing level 4 open canoe coach in the Netherlands and also gained qualifications of the A.C.A. (Instructor) and Canada. 
As a member of diverse clubs he organised special events for families, youth and children. He’s also a assessor gold for the Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. One of his highlights was paddling with Andy Oughton and Noddy the Bliss canoe trail; trip of 824 miles through/round England. 
More than 13 years ago he visited the OCF as a participant but now he is here to “help” and “passing on the knowledge” passed on to him to anyone who wants to improve or just wants some  encouragement or just to say; “yes that's it! Go for it!” From beginner to improver, solo and tandem and also Family’s and children. He loves sharing camp craft skills as well as paddling skills!! Shame life is too short!! ❤️