Nicny is one of our TigerSharks and a champion in open water swimming. Her journey reflects true grit, resilience, and passion, developed through years of dedication and perseverance. To learn more about her journey and achievements, we spoke to Nicny about her experiences in open water swimming.

What first got you into open water swimming, and do you remember the moment you realised it was something you wanted to take seriously?

My dad has always been passionate about triathlons, especially the Ironman, racing everywhere from oceans and canals to the Chao Phraya River. Because of him, the sport slowly became part of my life and eventually turned into something our whole family shared.

My first real memory of competing was in Austria, when I joined an Iron Kids race at six years old. I was the slowest swimmer there, but I remember telling myself it was okay because I finished. I was even featured in a local Austrian newspaper as the youngest competitor and the only Asian athlete.

When COVID started, I spent time in Phang Nga and learned how to surf. Being in the ocean so much changed how I felt about water. That was when my dedication really grew.

At ten, I signed up for the Oceankids 1km race. In the last 150 meters a current pulled me off direction, but I kept going and still finished 2nd overall in my age group.

I started noticing waste along the shoreline, which made me feel responsible and pushed me to take the sport more seriously. That mindset pushed me to compete in the Thailand Open Water Swimming Championships in 2024. I was 11 and tried my first 3km race. I did not make the podium, but I told myself next time I would.

Since then, I have stayed consistent and now have five championship titles across the 1km, 2km, and 3km events. The biggest thing I have learned is that progress comes from continuing to show up.

The 1km and 3km swims are tough races, what was going through your head during the hardest part of the swim?

The hardest part of the 1km and 3km swims was dealing with unpredictable conditions such as strong currents, changing weather, cold or shallow water, dehydration, jellyfish and sea lice stings. It was also scary starting some races in the dark. In those moments, I reminded myself that I chose this challenge, so I had to finish it strongly. I stayed focused on my goal to win and to share my experience in a way that could inspire confidence and raise awareness.

Have you ever experienced obstacles mentally or physically and what helped you overcome them?

Yes, I have experienced both mental and physical obstacles: strong currents, changing weather, dehydration and stings; mentally, feeling scared or frustrated in unpredictable conditions.

What helped was reminding myself why I chose this sport, staying calm and continuing to move forward. My goals and determination gave me the confidence to push through.

Balancing school, training, and competitions isn’t easy, how do you stay motivated and organised as a teenage athlete?

Balancing school, training and competitions is not easy. As a young teenager, I am still learning how to manage my energy and health. I know there are no shortcuts to success. I trust my coach, stay organised, and plan my time carefully while staying flexible. There are many moments when I have to say no to social activities and accept the sacrifices that come with chasing my goals.

After achieving first place at a national level, what message would you give to other young people who might doubt themselves or feel nervous about chasing big goals?

It is never too late to start, and the only thing stopping you is fear. Do not be afraid to ask for support. Even if you come last, completing the journey means you had the courage to try. Be the main character of your story. Safety comes first, but it should not be a reason to give up.

I especially want to encourage girls going through puberty. The menstrual cycle is not something to be ashamed of, and it does not have to stop you.

Go for it.

Nicny just competed in the Oceanman and placed 1st in the 5km alongside Miss Philipa and Theo. We wish her luck in her future competitions!