Jonas Andersson

– Race experience

I have probably done 30 different swimruns around Sweden since my first competition in 2009. The placement has always been top 10 regardless of local competition or larger races such as Ö till Ö Gothenburg, Kalmar Swimrun, and Kustjagaren.

– Why do you want to participate in One Water Race?

When I completed OWR 2022, I really got the feeling that I had to experience this again despite the fact that we finished and despite my herniated disc! I have a penchant for doing things that people say are impossible to do. Anyone can finish an Ironman, Ö till Ö, or a regular marathon if they prepare for it. OWR is about mastering your inner thoughts and not just 200 km of running and 50 km of swimming.

– Have you taken a similar challenge before?

During four weeks of preparation, the team and I reached the finish line in OWR 2022. Of course, I had trained during the year, but not more than usual. However, I took advantage of those weeks to prepare myself mentally for what was to come. The competition was harder and more painful than I could ever imagine.

– What are your strengths?

Since I swam a lot in my youth and continued to do so as an adult, I have always found swimming to be a great time for recovery. The running at OWR suits me well as it is at a comfortable pace similar to the one I train at. Intervals have rarely suited me. I can take a quick power nap if I need to, so I’m good at long races. The reason Staffan Björklund suggested I take his place in 2022 was precisely because of my mental strength.

– What are your weaknesses?

Navigation is my biggest weakness but also my biggest development point. Now I have no choice but to learn how navigation works in this competition, and it will be fun to learn something new. At the OWR race last time, it was the first and only time I realized that I can get angry, and it is probably one of many phases that the body goes through in an event like this.

– What would be your biggest challenges in this race?

The distances don’t scare me in the least. Getting all the food I need becomes difficult after a while. Regardless, I have to eat even if it hurts. I think it’s a challenge that a normal exerciser can’t fully understand. Cold weather is another tough element to master. Seeing someone on the team get hurt would also be very difficult. Navigation doesn’t scare me, but it is absolutely essential for reaching the finish line.

– Have you been to the Stockholm archipelago and what do you know/think about the terrain?

I’ve been to the archipelago many times and that’s exactly why I want to go back again. The fact that the course is not marked like a traditional swimrun course only adds extra excitement to the challenge.

– What are you most looking forward to, if you would participate in One Water Race?

Getting to the finish line and enjoying a delicious hotel breakfast with my team the next day!