De Jonge began paddling at the age of 13 at the Maskwa Aquatic Club in Halifax. His parents registered him with the club to help him meet more children his age. He has been associated with the Maskwa Aquatic Club throughout his career.

Coaching and Training

Frederic Jobin serves as his national coach. De Jonge's training has seen its share of challenges, including a broken finger in 2012 while training in the gym. Despite this setback, he continued to excel in his sport.

Sporting Philosophy

De Jonge lives by the motto, "It is how you show up at the showdown that counts," a quote by Homer Norton. This philosophy has guided him through various competitions and personal challenges.

Retirement Plans

De Jonge had considered retiring after the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games but decided to continue until the Tokyo Olympics. He aimed for a better performance than his seventh-place finish in Rio. His motivation included wanting his son Max to see him compete at the Olympics.

"Seventh [in Rio] is not bad. I made the final and not everyone makes the final," said De Jonge. "But to go from world champion to seventh was a shock for me. It's hard to retire from sports, especially on a bad note."

Business Ventures

In addition to his athletic career, De Jonge founded the De Jonge Watch Company in 2017. The business specialises in selling limited edition watches, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit alongside his sporting achievements.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, De Jonge plans to focus on his business ventures post-retirement. His journey from an athlete to a business owner exemplifies his versatility and dedication.

Mark de Jonge's story is one of perseverance and adaptability, both on and off the water. His achievements in sports and business reflect his commitment to excellence.