One of only six women in the world over the age of 60 to have rowed across an ocean when she traversed the Atlantic Ocean
“Ten years ago, a sea kayaking friend of mine introduced me to Reed Chillcheeter gear, so I bought some items and realised straight away how perfect they were for kayaking.
Some years later, I realised a long-held dream to get a chance to row the Atlantic. Ocean rowing is a pretty expensive sport and I needed some good gear to cover all sorts of weather. My thoughts turned to Chris and Reed Chillcheater, so I wrote one of the many letters Chris must get asking for free clothing to undertake my row with...
Without any hesitation , I was invited to send in a wish list and provide measurements. I was given every bit of gear I’d asked for – with no strings attached, not just something I shall always be grateful for but a generosity that showed the ethics of Chris and his business.
I completed the Atlantic row in 42 days in May 2021. Despite the unrelenting 35-40 degree sun, the nights were damp and cold, and that’s when my Reed gear came in really useful. I was very grateful for it and it more than proved its worth .
Three years later, and this time I have put a crew together to row around Britain. Again, I knew whose gear I would trust the most, so I wrote to Chris again, and again I was invited in to ask for what I wanted and be measured up. Because of the El Ninõ winds we’ve all experienced this year, our row has been postponed to 2025, so the gear will be tested out during winter training rows around the West Coast and Islands of Scotland. I know its wind and rain proof qualities will be put to good test.
As well as ocean rowing, I also coastal row in various types of coastal boats around the UK coastline. Myself and fellow rowers are spreading the word about Reed gear all across the coast! It’s great for all sorts of water sports, not just kayaking .
On a personal note, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Chris, Jane and team for not just their generosity in providing fantastic clothing without charge, but their enthusiastic support for us mad types who like to push the adventure boundaries. May the business continue to go from strength to strength!”
Read more > Sian’s Guardian Article
