Raven van Haven: The soul of the Central European SUP scene takes off for the 12th time
In 2025, the legendary “Raven van Haven” takes to the air and accompanies stand-up paddlers at one of the most traditional events in the Central European SUP scene. What once began as a small experimental workshop has long since developed into the creative engine of the sport. Many formats that are now firmly anchored in the world championship program or at top international events – such as sprint and tech races – celebrated their premiere at the Raven. Driven by the enthusiasm of the community, they have been further developed and established worldwide.
Organizer Rudy van Haven has always pursued a clear mission:
“It was always important to me to work at the base of my superfamily, I love this direct, undisguised contact with people.”
Rudy remains true to his principles: the Raven is an event by the community for the community. The direct exchange with the paddlers is particularly important to him, which is why all costs incurred are borne by him personally. Anyone who is interested can take part free of charge. Any donations and proceeds go entirely to charitable projects. “Helping paddlers are the best people,” says Rudy.
The sporting program of the Raven 2025 combines tradition with a sporting challenge. It consists of a 200-metre sprint and a 14-kilometre downriver race on the Danube. The starting point is the Greifenstein weir, from where the participants paddle in convoy to the “Haven Kuchelau”. Both distances count towards the overall Raven ranking.
The handmade prizes are also particularly noteworthy: Unique pieces designed by Rudy himself – a real trophy that enjoys cult status in the scene. Even well-known names such as Peter Bartl have not yet been able to add their name to the list of winners.
The Raven remains a real highlight not only in sporting terms, but also socially. Registration is via a voluntary donation which, as every year, goes to a good cause. In this way, the event combines sporting passion with social commitment – a real flagship for the SUP family.
Details about the event from Rudy:
Saturday, May 4 – 10 a.m.
We meet at Haven Kuchelau and from there in a convoy to the starting point of the tour/race 14 kilometers upstream at Stauwerk Greifenstein.
To warm up, there is a 200m sprint which is good training for the ÖM and then the TREIBGUT 3.0 mass start.
Both distances make up the RAVEN classification.
Also this year a BENEFIT EVENT where the registration fee (free DONATION) will be donated to a good cause.