Justin Smith

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

I love everything about it, the ethos, the mission, the community, the pureness of the challenge and of course the breathtaking archipelago. Plus I get to enjoy more of my wife’s doodles on the maps and stuff my face with Swedish fika.

– Have you taken a similar challenge before?

My wife and I were part of OWR in 2022 and we returned in 2024. Each time we gave our best effort without touching the lighthouse door. Last year, our race was just getting started at the 30 hr mark and we want to return to prove that we have what it takes to finish this race. The hunger has grown and the desire to reach Landsort is stronger than it has ever been. As the saying goes, “Third time’s a charm!”

– What are your strengths?

Eating lots of waffles, big hugs, and maintaining a positive outlook while finding a way to continue to grind. I have the love and support of an amazing family, the courage to lean in when things get really difficult and the hunger to keep pushing through discomfort.

– What are your weaknesses?

My fingers get really cold, I get frustrated when I can’t use them, and then I swear I am not going to spend time in cold water ever again. Furthermore, thinking clearly after no sleep and having my chin chafe my shoulder while breathing.

– What would be your biggest challenges in this race?

Hopefully it won’t be sipping too much salty water and struggling to keep food down or from coming up or out. I know keeping warm and remaining mentally and emotionally tough when a curveball comes our way. I also know that having hard conversations is not easy, especially when you are tired, so let’s welcome the uncomfortable in all aspects of this team sport.

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

My time during OWR in 2022 and 2024 was beautiful, but there is still so much that is undiscovered and this race gives you an intimate relationship with the islands. There really is no other place in the world like this and I know we all dream of going back and experiencing the beauty again. With each trip I learn a bit more about the islands, and love the element of surprise that will keep us on our toes and testing the limits of our team and gear.

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

I am most looking forward to experiencing the camaraderie and energy of the swim-run and OWR community. I love that I get to share this experience with my wife and family and two world-class competitors, in a one-of-a-kind backdrop. I love squeaking out every bit of myself and our team and am excited for the dawn and dusk swims. I am elated to be racing for something much bigger than myself and my team and hope to share the enthusiasm with others.