From gruelling 10km races to balancing both pool and open water competition, Moesha Johnson knows a thing or two about endurance. After training in Germany ahead of the Olympics, the Aussie open water swimmer has gained invaluable experience, both in and out of the water. We caught up with Moesha to chat about her biggest race moments, pre-race mindset, and, of course, which JAYD Swimwear shade matches her fierce racing style!
What’s it like living away from home while training in Germany?
Before Paris, I prepared for the Olympics in Germany. It was a very eye-opening experience with many challenges, but the personal growth was unmatched. You don’t grow without challenges. 😊
Do you have any pre-race rituals or lucky charms you can’t go without?
I have a pre-race schedule I map out and follow, but no particular rituals. I try to avoid getting myself into superstitious behaviours because once it’s in your head, it’s hard to not let it get to you.
What’s the first thing you do after completing a gruelling 10km open water race?
I catch my breath! Then I chat with the other girls who finish around me and talk about the race because we have all been alone in our heads for two hours, so it’s nice to speak to someone again.
How do you juggle competing in both pool and open water events?
It's not easy, but it comes with a lot of planning and preparation.
Do you have a favourite?
It's like choosing a favourite child! I have my love and dislike for both. But open water takes you to some amazing places, off the beaten track at times, whilst pool swimming is so electric with fast-paced action—it's hard to compare the two.
What’s the best part of travelling the world to compete?
I think the question highlights the best part. I get to travel the world and compete against the best in the world—like-minded athletes all trying to be the best they can be. I get to meet amazing people, go to amazing destinations, see the world, and have the honour of representing my country.
Open water racing can get intense—what’s the craziest thing that’s happened to you mid-race?
Open water is crazy. We are all swimming over each other, turning buoys, and racing in all sorts of weather and conditions. That alone makes it intense.
If you were a shade of JAYD Swimwear, which one would you be?
Ruby. Ruby is such a bold, bright, fun colour, and it gives me confidence and makes me feel fierce and fast.
What’s your current go-to snack?
I have no go-to snacks! I choose to eat a full meal when I can for better fuelling, so usually, that will be oats combined with yoghurt, nuts, and berries if I need a quick fuelling fix.
Describe open water swimming in three words:
Addictive, challenging, and very rewarding.
Which Australian beaches or spots are your go-to?
Cabarita Beach and the northern end of The Spit, where there are fewer crowds.
What’s your most memorable race to date? What made it stand out?
It would have to be the Paris race—it’s an Olympic race and an Olympic medal; you can’t really beat that! It was really interesting, very iconic, and very tactical, but I really loved it and won a silver medal.
If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring open water swimmers, what would it be?
To get out and just get experience—and also, to just get fit!
