Mitch Nissen

– What other experiences do you have that demonstrates your competence and ability to complete One Water Race?

Navigation & Water Experience: I grew up with a split lifestyle between water-based swimming and surf life saving competition and running around in the north Queensland rainforest. I’ve learnt to deal with high stress situations in the water through deep water (40m+) freediving, grade 5 whitewater kayaking and expedition racing. I’m a confident navigator having navigated for Team 5 One Water Race 2023, 4 expedition races (96-120 hours), 4×24-36hour adventure races and 2×24 hour rogaine all in the past 3 years.

– 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?

Yes, One Water Race 2023. And 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

– 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.

– 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. 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 2023 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.