Kawika Tarayao

– Race experience

Of all my previous race merits, the one that has prepared me the most is our failed attempt at One Water Race 2024. Previously, I was just lacking some essential knowledge that was gained by actually racing across the Stockholm archipelago. That additional experience is invaluable in an endeavor like this. Over the past two years, I have been dissecting my previous race and the race footage of all teams in every minute detail to make changes to the strategy. I know this team has what it takes to complete the course and we will arrive fully prepared in 2026.

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

I absolutely loved my experience two years ago, despite the outcome. Last year, I was devastated by a truly unfortunate and ill-timed injury that prevented me from even starting the race. Not a day goes by without thinking about One Water Race and what I would give for another opportunity. There are so many things that I would do differently given the chance. In competition and other physical challenges, I have discovered a greater understanding of myself and feel the most rewarded when I push beyond where I thought my limits were. Not only will One Water Race test that physical and mental capacity, but it will do so in the Stockholm archipelago that I have fallen in love with over the past seven years. I also cannot deny that I want redemption.

– Have you taken a similar challenge before?

Team 2 USA lasted 32 hours and 132 km in One Water Race 2024. I have raced in a 35-hour ultramarathon in blizzard conditions and have participated in three other self-supported swimruns that lasted over 20–30 hours. Additionally, I have competed in 49 swimrun races and have had plenty of racing and training experiences.

– What are your strengths?

I am incredibly detail oriented and can use this to analyze our previous performance, making changes that will guide our team to success. My adept planning allows me to embark upon complex challenges fully prepared, while my ability to problem solve on the fly helps me stay on track when things go sideways. I bring extensive experience with swimrun strategy, transitions, and gear to help our team race. My mental game is strong, I can grind physically when it is required of me, and I will always be there for my team.

– What are your weaknesses?

During races, I tend to put my head down and just do the work, but I don’t communicate my thoughts with my team as much as I should. In 2024 I learned that reduced communication can really be detrimental in a race this long. Problems need to be addressed right when they start and are not yet an issue. This will help avoid larger, potentially race-ending issues later in the race. Communication will be a key focus of mine to improve upon.

– What would be your biggest challenges in this race?

I am dedicating a year of training to mastering orienteering. I know there is a lot more to learn and this will be a major challenge for me. Also, sleep deprivation beyond 40 hours is uncharted territory for me. I know I have the mental game and positive attitude, but will that stay intact when I am hallucinating? How will I handle it when my body and mind break?

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

Over the past seven years, I have collectively spent months in and around the archipelago. I thoroughly love the technical challenges of racing across the islands. Hands down, my favorite running is through Swedish nature and over the uninhabited archipelago islands. Nothing near my hometown even comes close.

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

I am itching to get back on that starting line and begin moving across the entire archipelago to navigate our own route across the islands. Prior to the race, I am truly excited to work with this super team that we have assembled – training, preparing strategy, and bonding. As for the actual race: undoubtedly, touching the lighthouse door will be the pinnacle of a lifetime of adventurous physical endeavors, but I am also looking forward to swimming Danziger Gatt! Adventure at this level in its purest form, shared with a tight-knit team, is an experience that only a handful of people will ever be lucky enough to embark upon.