Overview
A professional kiteboarder from Noordwijk, Netherlands. Known as the “Master of Extreme”, he is a legend who changed the history of the sport by inventing the “Megaloop”, the most important trick in Big Air.
Career
Transcending the boundaries of competition, he has pushed his limits through freeriding in severe storms and extreme conditions. In 2005, at the early Red Bull King of the Air (KOTA) held in Maui, Hawaii, he achieved a stunning victory over legend Robby Naish and others at the young age of 16.
Later, in 2012, he launched the “Red Bull Len10 Megaloop Challenge” bearing his name in South Africa, which became a major stepping stone for current pinnacle Big Air events like Red Bull Megaloop and the revival of the then-suspended KOTA in Cape Town.
Not confined to the water, he also captivated fans worldwide with his fearless approach at the 2012 “Red Bull Ragnarok” snowkite competition in Norway, successfully executing an astonishing cliff jump, diving with his kite off a 100-meter cliff in the snowfields.
Sponsors & Brands
For many years, he dominated the scene as Slingshot’s iconic rider alongside the legendary “Fuel” kite, driving the development of gear capable of withstanding brutal riding in strong winds. Later, from 2019 to 2023, he served as a global ambassador for Ozone Kites. From 2024 onwards, he has become an independent freerider unbound by specific kite brands, paving a new path testing and reviewing gear from all brands in partnership with retailers like Kitemana. He has been supported by Mystic for apparel and harnesses for many years.
Personality & Friendships
Always valuing positive “Vibes”, he provides coaching and retreat experiences through his “LEN10” brand and is also active as a DJ.
In his social circle, Aaron Hadlow is his biggest rival and best friend, having traveled the world together to push the sport’s limits. Furthermore, he is literally a member of kiteboarding’s royal family, being cousins with fellow top Dutch riders Kevin Langeree and Jalou Langeree.
The greatest trial in his life was his grueling battle with lymphoma (a 9x9cm tumor discovered near his heart) diagnosed in 2015. However, he viewed even this desperate situation as a “gift for growth”, and beautifully overcame it through self-exploration and the dedicated support of his wife, Nikki. He is an indomitable man who made a comeback to the water with an unbreakable spirit.
Quotes & Anecdotes
“Every obstacle or challenge you face in life has similar drawbacks and benefits; “every cloud has a silver lining”. Whenever you face a challenge, try to turn it into an opportunity.”
— Ruben Lenten
“What goes up, must come down and what goes down, must come up!”
— Ruben Lenten
Competition Results
- Inventor of the Megaloop
- 2005: Winner, Red Bull King of the Air (Hawaii)
- 2012: Founder, Red Bull Len10 Megaloop Challenge