Lin returns from a challenge of a lifetime

Lin has spent the past three months rowing across the Atlantic with her best friend, Rachel Smith, in aid of Breast Cancer Care. The women, who had spent the previous three years fundraising for their Atlantic Challenge, left the Spanish island of La Gomera on 2 December 2007 and reached Antigua 76 days later, having rowed 2,935 miles across the ocean.

Highlights of the trip included seeing whales and dolphins that swam around and under the boat, the amazing starry skies at night, sunsets and sunrises and the fantastic warm welcome they received when they finally arrived in Antigua.

Lin, 42, is divorced with a 14-year-old son, Liam. She spoke to him once a week on a satellite phone and when they were getting close to Antigua, the Antigua and Barbuda Search & Rescue team brought Liam out on the rescue boat to see his mum cross the finish line. It was a very emotional moment for Lin, who had not seen her son for so long.

It wasn't all plain sailing though - Lin and Rachel had to deal with waves reaching over 30 feet and when they were 300 miles from the end, one of those waves hit the side of the boat and capsized it. Both women ended up in the sea but as they had always put safety first, they were attached to the boat with safety lines.

Lin said: "It was a terrifying moment as I was about to cook our dinner when Rachel shouted 'Watch out!'. I realised we were about to be hit by a massive wave, so I quickly turned to shut the cabin door (this ensures the boat will self right) and the next thing I knew we were under water. I just told myself to hold onto the boat and as soon as I could see daylight, I knew I could let go and float to the surface."

Fortunately, Lin and Rachel were not injured and, remarkably, only lost a few non-vital pieces of kit. However, to add to their stress, they felt unable to tell anyone about the incident as they wanted to avoid worrying their families. With one more week left at sea, the women had to support each other as they battled through yet more big waves and tough conditions until, with great resolve, they reached Antigua to be greeted with a huge champagne reception organised by friends, family and local residents.

Croydon Council chief executive Jon Rouse said: "I'm pleased that the council was able to offer Lin the flexibility which allowed her to complete this amazing challenge. She is a great inspiration to her colleagues and by giving presentations and speaking at events she has already used her experiences to motivate and encourage colleagues.

"I think many of the skills that she and her friend learnt, such as planning and preparing well and the need to be adaptable to change, have parallels in more everyday activities and her story has much to teach us."

So far the two women have raised nearly £75,000 for Breast Cancer Care and are continuing their fundraising efforts until the end of June 2008. They will be appearing at a number of events across the country. Visit their website at www.atlanticrowingchallenge.co.uk for more details.

To make a donation online, visit www.justgiving.com/atlanticrowing.

Council and democracy