Hello all OCEANMAN!
My name is Charin from Bangkok, Thailand.
I appreciate being a part of the OCEANMAN family since its very first global venture. How did I come to know OCEANMAN?
A friend in Thailand once said that if you want to excel as:
- A good runner – run the marathon majors
- A good cyclist – conquer Audax
- A good triathlete – tackle Ironman
- A good swimmer – embrace OCEANMAN
That was my introduction to OCEANMAN.
I began swimming in my small hometown, Sisaket, in my youth. My first taste of open water came during university. Starting with a domestic swimathon in Pattaya, I progressed to a 12km charity swim across the islands, then regional events in Southeast Asia, and eventually OCEANMAN races worldwide: Malaysia, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Greece, Mexico, UAE, Kazakhstan, and Turkey. Each race spanned distances of 5-10km.
My longest swim was a grueling 30km at OCEANMAN Madeira, Portugal.
Each OCEANMAN event is unique, offering lessons in water conditions, weather, and human resilience.
“You have to prepare yourself for all the changes, be ready.”
I have two significant experiences to share:
First, ULTRAOCEANMAN in Tabarca. Despite the cold, stormy weather and strong currents, I persevered. This taught me about the importance of mindset during the toughest moments in the water.
Second, a recent swim escorting my friend from Kazakhstan, Rodion, in Phuket. Despite language barriers, our shared passion united us. Rodion’s swim, fueled by his dreams and by his family, exemplified the “inspiration” category of OCEANMAN. He swam not just for himself but for everyone facing self-doubt, proving that anyone can swim.
I’ve also joined the CAMP open water swimming group, advocating for ocean conservation alongside OCEANMAN’s mission.
Advice for swimmers:
I’m not a professional swimmer or podium finisher, but I believe in taking small steps towards your goals with passion and discipline. Safety comes first, even for professionals. And remember to cherish every moment in the water.
Goal in life:
My goal is simple: to swim the world, sharing my experiences to motivate others. “Inspire and be inspired” is my mantra.
“You never know how strong you are, until being strong is the only choice you have…”
Thank you!
