In 1998, Merijn joined the Dutch Speedski Team and competed in his first speedski race in Pullinki (Sweden). The first successe came in the FIS World Cup tour in 1999; a 4th place in Bielmonte (Italy) and 8th place in the overall FIS World Cup ranking. From this season his girlfriend Els began to join Merijn in his trips around the world.

The 2002 season was a real milestone. Further development of approach and material resulted in sponsorships and a new Dutch and Benelux record! During the Pro Mondial in Les Arcs France 200k treshhold was broken and more.... at the Pro Mondial Finals more than one barrier was taken. Qualifying with 216 and 221 km/h and in the finals skiing an amazing run of 229.300 km/h!!. During the fastest race ever, Red Rock Cup 2002 Les Arcs, Merijn broke his own fresh record by 10 kilometers!! In the race were Philippe Goitschel skied an amazing new World Record (250.7 km/h), Merijn reached a new peak: 239.68 km/h.

Merijn reached a new speed at Queensday (April 30. 2005), the second fastest race in the world. Merijn cranked it up to an amazing 243.9 km/h!!