31/07/2026
Race Report from Andreas Sachs, My World Championships – Amfibiemannen: More Than a Race
"More than a race." Few event slogans live up to their promise as convincingly as Amfibiemannen SwimRun.
After a three-year break, Wolffwear brought one of the oldest SwimRun races back to life, reminding the community why this event deserves a place on every SwimRunner's bucket list. Officially listed as a sprint at just under 16 km, the course felt much closer to a half-distance race thanks to its relentless technical terrain. On top of that, Amfibiemannen is also a qualifier for the My SwimRun Championships, making it an attractive challenge for both elite and age-group athletes.
The adventure begins long before the starting horn. A short ferry ride takes you to Arholma, the northernmost inhabited island of the Stockholm Archipelago. With no cars on the island, the atmosphere immediately changes. After a scenic 15-minute walk to the northern tip of Arholma, you arrive at the start line, leaving everyday life far behind.
The setting is everything you imagine when you think of Swedish SwimRun: rugged granite cliffs, dense forests, narrow single trails, crystal-clear bays and endless rock slabs shaped by the sea. The course delivers everything that defines the sport—technical running over exposed rocks, jumps into the Baltic Sea, flowing trail sections and constant transitions between land and water. It is demanding, playful and incredibly rewarding.
The organization was outstanding. The course was perfectly marked, safety boats covered every swim section, and the entire Wolffwear team demonstrated the passion and professionalism that make a race truly memorable.
Race day conditions could hardly have been better. Around 22°C air temperature, sunshine and the refreshingly cool, unmistakably Swedish sea created ideal conditions for an unforgettable day in the archipelago.
What truly sets Amfibiemannen apart, however, is its atmosphere.
From the very first moments, drummers in the start and finish area create goosebumps while enthusiastic spectators cheer on the nearly 100 athletes. It is one of those rare events where everyone—from first-time participants to world champions—shares the same passion and energy.
Then comes the moment everyone will remember.
Just before the finish line, the course dives into the underground Arholma Fortress. Within seconds, the bright summer landscape gives way to dark tunnels filled with history. Athletes run through former military quarters, communication rooms, an operating theatre and ammunition storage before emerging back into daylight for the final meters. It is an unforgettable finish unlike anything else in SwimRun.
Crossing the finish line is rewarded in true Scandinavian style: a freshly grilled burger, a well-earned cold beer and the chance to share stories with fellow athletes. Thoughtful prizes for the podium finishers complete an event that clearly puts athletes first.
The level of competition was equally impressive. Overall victory went to none other than multiple ÖTILLÖ World Champions Lorraine and Fredrik Axegård, once again demonstrating why they remain among the sport's very best.
Amfibiemannen is far more than another SwimRun race. It combines spectacular nature, Swedish history, genuine community spirit and technically challenging racing into an experience that stays with you long after the finish line.
Here, "More than a race" isn't just a slogan.
It's a promise—and on Arholma, it is fulfilled with every single step, every swim stroke and every moment along the course.
