9
Team 9 – CAN/AUS
Mitch Nissen
Australia , Townsville
Merits
- 2024 One Water, third place, finisher
- 2023 One Water, 237km, DNF, third furthest team
- 2023 Australasian Rogaine Championships 9th Place
- 2023 Oceania Adventure Racing Champions
- 2023 Godzone New Zealand finisher, 26th place
- 2022 Explore Gippsland (adventure race), 23h31m, 2nd Place
- 2022 Raid100 (100 hour expedition race), 7th Place
- 2022 23km Goldrush Trail Run, 1h51m, 2nd Place
- 2022 Australasian Rogaine Championships 9th Place
- 2009 Queensland Championships Surf Life Saving – Ironman 3rd Place
– Why do you want to participate in One Water Race?
I seek moments in life where I can have raw experiences in the outdoors with good people. I believe in these situations I can best grow as an individual, connect with people and capture a glimpse of the beautiful mysteries in this world. One Water is the ultimate test that satisfies my ‘Why?’ physically, mentally and emotionally. I want to support the One Water movement in raising awareness for the world water crisis including preservation of natural resources and rising sea levels impacting people’s homes, culture and livelihood.
– Have you taken a similar challenge before?
One Water Race 2023/24. Physically and navigationally, similar challenges I have completed include: Expedition Canada, XPD Cairns, and Raid 100. I’ve completed other adventures that have conditioned me mentally and emotionally such as a 750km solo hike on the Australian Alpine Walking Trail, live-off-the-land survival trips, Grade 5 whitewater kayaking rescues, deep water free diving.
– What are your strengths?
Navigation, running on rocky terrain, off-piste running, endurance swimming, adapting to the unknown, endurance racing, teamwork, expedition racing, leadership – although as a navigator I believe it is best to have another as the team captain for most scenarios.
– What are your weaknesses?
Maintaining energy intake, maintaining body temperature when swimming, operating without sleep…
– What would be your biggest challenges in this race?
Navigating non-stop for 60 hours. The 48-52 hour period will be the toughest period to stay focussed but our team is experienced in working together and supporting the navigator to get through this.
– Have you been to the Stockholm archipelago and what do you know/think about the terrain?
The archipelago is stunning, we loved racing there in 2023/2024. The sunsets while swimming were beautiful.
– What are you most looking forward to, if you would participate in One Water Race?
Progressing our skills and team since the last race. A raw experience in the outdoors with incredible people. Working together with the team to overcome adversity and unknown challenges. Personally I am excited to navigate over new terrain in a different style of racing and navigation in a unique environment.
