Cheers to Damjan Petreski from Macedonia, founder of the country’s only registered SUP club know as Paddle Klub, and race director of the Lake Ohrid SUP Crossing, an event that drew paddlers from 19 countries for its celebratory 5th edition in 2025. Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and clearest lakes, offers glassy, transparent waters framed by dramatic mountain landscapes, turning every paddle into a blend of sport, serenity, and scenery. The region’s combination of ancient heritage, warm local culture, and untouched natural beauty creates an experience that feels both adventurous and deeply authentic, especially as Macedonia’s SUP community continues to grow. Thanks to Damjan’s dedication, paddlers from around the world are discovering a place where the sport isn’t just practiced, it’s helping shape a vibrant and emerging paddle culture in the heart of the Balkans.
Petreski says, "I’m a longtime fan of Session Magazine, with my love for the publication stretching all the way back to its earlier days as Stand Up Journal. It’s been amazing to watch it evolve into something that embraces more than just SUP, bringing in new stories, interviews, and perspectives of paddlers, surfers, watermen, and waterwomen from all walks of life. What we appreciate most is that Session Magazine still exists in beautiful hard-copy form, not just digital, keeping that soulful experience alive. Kudos to the entire Session Magazine team for continuing to share the stoke, the community, and the positive vibes that make this world of ours so special."
Thanks for the kind words and inspiration Damjan! Happy paddling in 2026. - The Session Team
