Mitch Nissen

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

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. In 2022 I completed the Australian Alps Walking Track with additional off trail sections totalling 750km in 21 days (unsupported with two food drops). I navigated the entire route with map and compass. I have a natural navigational ability which has developed further over the past 18 months through adventure racing and rogaining. I’m a confident navigator having navigated for 3 expedition races (96-120 hours), 3×24-36hour adventure races and 1×24 hour rogaine all in the past 18 months. *** One day I was stuck in the Pacific Ocean in the Cook Islands – Rarotonga during a tropical storm. We had gone freediving and the storm rolled in producing 5m swell crashing on the reef and preventing us from swimming into the island safely. We had to swim 20km around the island for 8 hours until the storm passed. It was quite an experience especially considering the 5m tiger shark we encountered in the same area!

– 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?

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, deepwater freediving.

– 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 scnearios.

– What are your weaknesses?

Inexperience with the local terrain, 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?

I have not been there but the photos and videos from last year is absolutely stunning. The ocean and islands are dream-like. I have researched as much content as I can and hear the terrain is quite rocky and rough which will make for fun travel over land. I am excited to swim at night with the stars and moonlight (unless it rains)!

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