Bridgedale's North American MD Completes Solo Atlantic Crossing

Colin Sanders, Managing Director of Bridgedale North America, has successfully completed an 83- day solo crossing of the Atlantic Ocean in aid of Community Living Ontario.

The 64-year-old set off from the Canary Islands in his boat called ‘Socks 2’ on 10 December 2017 and finally rowed into Antigua’s English Harbour on 2 March 2018, raising a staggering $145,500 for Community Living Ontario and its member organisations. Colin’s adult son Jeff is supported by Community Living, a family-based organisation which supports people with an intellectual disability and their families.

After a relatively calm start, the weather soon turned to blowing 30 knots with 25-foot waves and Colin realised his rowing challenge was going to be anything but easy, both physically and emotionally. Battling capsizing in high seas, broken ribs and food poisoning, Colin never gave up hope and was determined to complete his rowing challenge.

Colin Sanders, Managing Director of Bridgedale NA, commented: “Having been active all my life, I still felt I had something to prove, especially to my kids – I wanted them the realise you can dream big and still be successful.  Speaking with my family on New Year’s Eve was the hardest part of the whole expedition, but I just kept focusing on the end goal and raising as many funds as possible for Community Living.”

Colin continued: “I’ve lost around 25-30 pounds in weight and after breaking a couple of ribs while brushing my teeth on deck, the last few days were pretty painful. I have no regrets though and it’s an amazing feeling to be one of less than 30 people to row solo across the Atlantic.  I certainly appreciate the small things now!”