Melissa Smith

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

One Water Race is constantly on my mind. The experience is unlike any other race, bringing together a huge coordination effort to even make it possible across the Swedish Archipelago. Over time, this crew has become family – a kind, loving group that are all passionate about supporting athletes striving to accomplish this unfathomable feat. Being the support crew in this race is uniquely challenging in that you are creating the course for your teammates and helping them with both their individual needs and their team needs throughout the race. Unlike ultramarathons or other long distance races where at times I can shut off my brain and just follow the trail ahead, this race requires your mind to stay sharp for the full 60 hours. I love every minute of it out there! When our team had to stop last year due to a medical situation, my heart felt like it was wrapped in a vice grip for weeks afterwards. It was hard to process what was happening as I saw how strong and mentally aware our team still was, all things considered. We have unfinished business amongst these islands, and I know this team is absolutely capable of touching the lighthouse door in Landsort. I also hope for us to be the first USA Team and the first female support team member to touch that lighthouse door.

– Have you taken a similar challenge before?

This will be my third go at One Water Race and I am the most excited for 2025. We already know each other as a team heading into this race and I look forward to growing together, preparing for it.

– What are your strengths?

I absolutely love orienteering and route finding. I also have the ability to sit with discomfort, or simply block it out altogether to get the job done. And I can prepare a soul-comforting hot cocoa or broth when it’s needed most.

– What are your weaknesses?

Ham and cheese croissants.

– What would be your biggest challenges in this race?

Kawika, Kayla, and Justin are individually ridiculously strong athletes, and as a team they are able to communicate effectively. My goal is to continue to bring the motivational energy they need in both high and low moments to keep moving when they start to feel the long hours of racing nonstop.

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

This terrain is truly a playground for nature lovers – endless trails and beautiful blue skies, blanketing green islands as far as the eye can see. I am also a bit jealous that I don’t get to hike around land more during the race as I mostly remain on our team boat – perhaps this next year I’ll sneak off when waiting for the team to eat wild blueberries.

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

Spending time with our One Water Race family once more and taking care of some unfinished business. Landsort is calling.