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

Originally from the Netherlands and now living for 9 years in Bristol, Great Britain with his wife and two young 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. 

He is active as member of the Open Canoe Association and organised special event for families, youth and children. One of his highlights was paddling with Andy Oughton and Noddy the Bliss canoe trail; trip of 824 miles through/round England. 

Six years ago he visited the OCF as a participant but now he is here to “help” 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. Shame life is too short!