Freya Hoffmeister 'Sportswoman of the Year'

Video interview in German: Marion Buk-Kluger | Translation to English: Ulla Fischer | Video production: Gijs Takken

Welcome Freya Hoffmeister. You are the first winner of the Women of the Year World Paddle Awards. Congratulations. Are you proud, especially because you received that award in your home country Germany?
Of course it made me really proud, especially due to the fact that I am seen as an athlete for once. The media often writes about me in an adventure or travel context. I am finally amongst athletes and that’s also how I see myself- as an athlete with a spirit of adventure. Paddling 5km somewhere right in front of my doorstep does not satisfy me. With this in mind, it is a great honor for me to be named together with world cup and Olympic champions.

For those that do not know you, which kind of paddle sports are you exactly doing?
I am basically paddling around islands, just that those islands became bigger and bigger with time. I started with Iceland and then did the south island of New Zealand and Australia. A week ago I finished paddling around South America. So the trip was actually crowned by winning this Award. Thank you for the perfect timing.

It sounds all so easy -“I paddle around islands”- but those are huge islands. Is it not dangerous to do that?
One definitely has to fight with the waves from time to time. People often ask me how far from the coast I paddle without realizing that the coast is often more dangerous than the open water. It is where the waves break and where there are sharp rocks. Quiet coasts or secure harbors are rare. It was not always possible to find a place to sleep so that I had to paddle through the night from time to time.

You returned only recently. Were you in a hurry to be back on time for the World Paddle Awards?
Well luckily I did not have to compete with anyone. I was the first one to make this journey and was able to set some standards. Now people can attempt to reach them. Honestly, I don’t believe that this will happen anytime soon but if so, I hope that person will return safely as well.

Amongst all your expeditions, is there anything special that stayed in your mind?
I have been away for such a long time, so it is difficult to pick out a certain special, interesting, bad or good moment. Every day has its peculiarities. Of course there were some negative experiences as well. From today’s point of view I am happy that I came back safe and sound from my trip. The beauty of the South American coast is great.

I can imagine you are glad to be back home after each trip. Do you generally plan a new adventure soon after?
After my Australian adventure I was a bit disappointed, so I quickly picked South America as next continent. In between my trips I give presentations worldwide, which I really enjoy. I love sharing my experience and being an inspiration to other paddlers.

What would you advise young girls that would like to go on such an adventure themselves? Is there an age limit?
I don’t think there is an age limit. It is always possible to set goals for oneself. Personally, I could imagine paddling until an old age. I believe only by setting personal goals, one can broaden the own horizon.

Were there dangerous situations as well?
In Australia it was mainly the animals that worried me. In South America, however, the people often got a bit intrusive. But I think I impressed them with my performance, so they stayed away from me.

So even better that you are here today. Congratulations again!
Thank you. I would also like to thank the Academy and all my fans!

See also: Touring and Expeditions