Everything You Need to Know About The Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis
Written by Marc Cotterill
The Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis is an epic 80-mile endurance paddle-boarding event that happens every year on the weekend after Father’s Day. Participants set off from Bimini in the Bahamas at midnight and paddle for 80 miles across the highly unpredictable Atlantic Gulf Stream ocean until reaching Lake Worth Florida.
My aim with this article is to provide you with everything you need to know, to explain what it’s like to take on the challenge as a person living with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) and to encourage you to give it a go too.
I completed the event in the summer of 2023 as part of a relay team together with three of my closest friends. We called ourselves Team NEON. I’ll describe our experience and offer tips and tricks for those who travel from abroad to take part.
This event is unlike any other and it is one of the most memorable things I’ve ever done. If you want to learn more about The Crossing for CF, this is the article for you.
Start with WHY
Before I signed up for The Crossing, one thing was abundantly clear. Much like Simon Sinek's profound philosophy, it is not just about what we do, but why we do it that truly matters.
I knew I needed to start with WHY, and if you’re tempted to try this endurance paddle boarding adventure too, I encourage you to do the same.
For me personally, my WHY was deeply rooted in my own journey as a person living with CF. I wanted to demonstrate the transformative power of the new drug Trikafta, showcasing how it has remarkably improved my life.
But my purpose extended beyond personal experience; it was about making a global impact. I was driven by the pressing need to raise both funds and awareness for the 150 countries around the world still deprived of access to this life-changing medication.
The Crossing demands a lot from participants; training and preparation, the cost of getting to the Bahamas and the equipment you’ll require, and the time you’ll have to dedicate to raising awareness, sharing your story and fundraising. It’s exciting and loads of fun in the run-up, but it can also feel overwhelming.
With this in mind, my advice is to start with WHY.
Having a strong WHY - and reminding yourself of that WHY - will help you stay on track, even if the waves of doubt threaten to pull you off course.
Before You Commit
Categories: There are many different categories for participants, but for simplicity within this article, I will summarise them into two distinct groups. Recreational; for those who want a fun, more leisurely, non-competitive experience, and Competitive; for those who want to race. We decided that we wanted to enter as a recreational non-profit team as we wanted to raise money for a second cause (Vertex Save Us) as well as Piper’s. You can learn more about categories on the registration pages linked at the end of this article.
Registration: To sign up for The Crossing you have to register and there is a fee. The later you leave it, the more the registration fees increase, so sign up early and start planning long before your adventure begins. Fees also vary based on the category you’ll be paddling in. Again - links to learn more are below.
Support Boat & Crew: For an event of this magnitude, safety is a top concern. Every paddler is required to have a dedicated support boat. Your support boat and crew will serve as your guiding star as you navigate the Gulf Stream and they have the experience and knowledge needed to chart the most efficient course, to ensure you make progress while conserving energy.
Your support boat carries the vital supplies essential to fuel the expedition and is equipped with all the necessary safety gear, including radio and GPS equipment. Your Captain and crew will be a constant source of motivation, and as you battle fatigue and the vastness of the ocean, their support will keep spirits high.
The boat will travel just ahead of you, creating a path for you and your team to follow. This strategic positioning allows you to benefit from reduced resistance, making your progress steady and consistent.
Piper’s will source a support boat for you if you are registered in the ‘Recreational Solo (needing boat support)’ category. Paddlers in other categories have to arrange their own support boat, but if you have no idea where to start with this, reach out to the guys from Piper’s for advice. Costs associated with this support can vary depending on your category and Captain, but in our case, we only had to pay for fuel for the boat, which I will detail below.
Costs: If you’re travelling from the UK like me, having a basic idea of costs will be useful, but please bear in mind that these costs were relevant for us in 2023 and anything can change over time. No donated money was used to cover these costs, but I was personally offered some financial assistance from Piper’s to help. I’ll explain more about that in a moment in the ‘Support for CF Warriors’ section.
Here is a breakdown of our costs:
Crossing for CF Registration: $149 each
Flights from Manchester via Heathrow to Florida: £1,145 each
Florida Accommodation (20/06 - 22/06): £966 split between 4
Bimini Accommodation and boat licence (22/06 - 24/06): £1450 split between 4
Florida Accommodation (25/06 - 27/06): £966.00 split between 4
Support Boat Fuel: $800 split between 4
Medical insurance (I went with Insurancewith who covered all travel apart from the event itself - link below): £66.07 for me only and it did cover CF
Event Insurance (this provided insurance for the event as Insurancewith does not cover paddleboarding events like this - link below): £60.00 for me only and it did cover CF
Supplies for Bimini: $200 approx. split between 4
Equipment (see ‘Preparation’ below)
Obviously, if you’re new to paddleboarding you may have to purchase a paddleboard for training too. We chose inflatables as it was much easier to travel to the lake for practice with boards that can roll up into a bag, but it’s likely that you’ll want to cross on a rigid board as they are much more stable in ocean water. We borrowed a rigid board from Piper’s so try that option first, but there is a Crossing Board Exchange group on Facebook to help you find a board at a reasonable price if not. Links below.
Support for CF Warriors: If you have CF yourself and you want to take part, I highly recommend the Forever Stoke Scholarship, which is one of the programs offered by The Piper’s Angels Foundation to provide positive experiences for people with CF in a natural healing salt environment. If successful, you’ll be offered assistance in taking part in The Crossing. This could be discounted registration fees, additional financial assistance to help you take part, and all the help you could ask for in the run-up to the event. I was successful in applying for a scholarship and it helped to cover some - but not all - of my own personal costs. I highly recommend it to anyone with CF who is interested in taking part. Check out the links at the end to learn more.
Fundraising: This event exists to raise money for people and families living with Cystic Fibrosis, and that is why it’s such an incredible and unique event. By raising money to support the work of The Piper’s Angels Foundation, you’ll be helping to fund a range of programs that benefit and change the lives of people with CF all over the world.
The minimum fundraising commitment for each participant in 2023 and 2024 is $2000.
It’s a lot of money, but it’s more than achievable if you remember your WHY and commit to the cause. I’ll offer my tips for fundraising below and I’ll link to the incredible Piper’s Angels Foundation programs you’ll be supporting with your efforts.
Do Something Epic: Crossing an ocean on a paddleboard is no small undertaking. It’s epic and it may feel almost ‘too big’ to some - particularly if you have a chronic illness like CF. That’s how I felt for three years after I first heard about it. The idea of setting off from the beach at midnight in complete darkness was quite possibly the scariest thing I could imagine, but I was also aware that life can get pretty amazing when you take a deep breath, embrace the uncomfortable and face your fear.
So my advice to you is simple: Do Something Epic.
Training
When it comes to training for The Crossing, there are several essential factors to consider. First and foremost, getting started is about building a strong foundation. Begin with shorter distances and gradually work your way up.
In terms of the speed you’ll need to maintain, it’s simple maths. If you do 5mph for 80 miles, it’ll take 16 hours. That’s not to say you have to go that fast (or slow), but it’s a good guide for training.
Following registration, you will be assigned a Crossing mentor, an experienced paddler who has completed the event and who can help answer the many questions you’ll have in the run-up.
The biggest takeaway for me following our first mentor call was the phrase ‘time on the water’. Time on the water is your greatest ally. The more, the better. It enhances your balance and familiarises you with the unpredictable nature of open ocean conditions.
It’s called ‘stand up’ paddle boarding, so of course, you should practice paddling while standing up, but I’d also encourage you not to neglect training on your knees, as rough seas may force you into this position. Unless you’ve spent a lot of time on the board on your knees, it can get very uncomfortable, very quickly. It's all about adaptability.
Nutrition is equally crucial, as it fuels your body for the demanding task ahead. Carbohydrates are your primary source of energy, so it’s a good idea to consume your carbs around your training to ensure sustained power during long sessions. Taking either carb powders or gels during long sessions is a good idea too to help cover the distance.
Staying hydrated is paramount; the ocean's relentless sun and wind can quickly sap your energy and the same is true during long training paddles. Consider an electrolyte power to add to your hydration packs to ensure you remain hydrated throughout.
Check out the links at the end of this article for products I used.
For individuals with CF (Cystic Fibrosis), optimising your lung function is key to making the most of each training session. Make treatments part of your pre-training ritual, clearing your lungs as effectively as possible before each session.
Here’s a short list of my top 5 tips to keep in mind:
Gradually increase your distance: Start with shorter paddles and incrementally build the distance over time to allow your body to adapt.
Practice different positions: Train both in standing and kneeling positions to be prepared for varying sea conditions.
Time on the ocean is essential: Training in open water significantly differs from calm lakes; the more time you spend in challenging conditions, the better you'll handle them.
Focus on nutrition: Fuel your body with carbohydrates for energy and stay well-hydrated during training sessions.
Optimise lung function: If you have CF, prioritise clearing your lungs before training to maximise your endurance and performance.
Equipment
List of Must-Have Equipment for Paddlers:
Board, Paddle, and Leash: The basics for paddleboarding.
Personal Floatation Device / Life Jacket: Safety first – essential for emergencies.
High-Visibility Vest: To ensure visibility during nighttime paddling.
Waterproof Whistle: An audible signal for safety during the night.
Glow Stick: Another night-time visibility essential.
Equipment Provided by Piper’s:
Numbered Race Bib: Identifies you during the event.
Garmin GPS Tracker: Your friends and family can track your progress.
RFID Timing Chip: Ensures accurate timing.
Optional Useful Equipment to Consider:
Waterproof Camera: To document as much as possible.
Anti-Sickness Tablets / Stickers: If the waters are rough, you WILL need them.
Hydration Pack (CamelBak or Similar): Stay hydrated on the go.
Neck Buff/Scarf: Protect your neck from the sun.
Dry Bag: Keep essentials dry in the boat.
Battery Pack: Ensure your devices stay charged during the crossing.
Bug Repellent: Keep the bugs away whilst on the island.
First Aid Kit: Check with your captain; they might have it covered.
Vaseline or Similar: Prevent chafing during the journey.
Medication: Bring all your usual medication, including rescue meds.
Paracetamol: Just in case.
Knee Pads: Handy for riding on your knees.
Pool Noodle: For added comfort under your feet when kneeling.
UV Protection: Sunglasses, hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen.
Long-Sleeve Sun-Protective Shirt: Piper's usually provides one, but it's a good backup.
Offline Playlist: Enjoy music from the boat for motivation.
Cooler: For food and drinks - check with your Captain.
Fundraising
Embarking on a fundraising journey may seem like a daunting challenge in itself, especially when faced with a minimum goal of $2,000. However, let me assure you that with a bit of creativity and focus, it is more than achievable.
It all begins with a simple truth: fundraising isn't just about collecting funds; it's about inspiring people to believe in your cause.
The Power of Visual Storytelling: I started by creating a compelling social media launch video. It wasn't just about showcasing the challenge; it was about weaving a narrative that drew viewers in. I hooked them with intrigue (what about sharks?!), introduced my personal connection to CF, highlighted the significance of the challenge, introduced the incredible team, and most importantly, emphasised the vital cause we were supporting. It all culminated in a powerful call to action that resonated with the audience.
Make Waves in the Media: We didn't stop at social media. We leveraged the potential of the press by crafting a professional press release. We cast our net wide, reaching out to local and national news outlets, social media agencies, radio stations, and even international giants like the BBC. The goal was simple: share our story far and wide, raising awareness and support.
Sponsorship: A Win-Win: We created sponsorship packages that allowed businesses to align with our cause in meaningful ways. Each tier offered them distinct benefits, from social recognition posts to having their logo proudly displayed on our equipment. The key here is to make it a win-win; your supporters get visibility, and you get the funds you need.
Engage with Your Community: We attended a stand-up paddleboarding festival here in the UK, working closely with the SUP FEST team and their generous sponsor 'Bluefin.' These events were perfect for gaining support, as passionate paddleboard enthusiasts rallied behind our cause.
Host Events: In our local area, we organised a gig featuring four local bands that offered their talents at reduced rates. After covering the band expenses, every penny from ticket sales and our raffle was added to our fundraising pot. Think creatively about events that resonate with your audience.
Document Your Journey: People love stories, especially those filled with ups and downs. Share your training journey on social media—be transparent about your feelings and challenges. Keep your supporters engaged and always remind them how they can support you. Thank everyone who does.
Double the Impact: Check if your employer has a donation matching scheme. It's surprising how this simple step can amplify your efforts, pushing you closer to your target.
Always Remember Your WHY: Fundraising is not always smooth sailing. There will be challenges and moments when you question if it's all worth it. That's when you must reconnect with your WHY—the reason that ignited your passion for this event. It's your North Star, guiding you through the toughest moments.
When fundraising, you have to be committed, and you can't be scared to ask. Start early, embrace creativity, and remember that every dollar you raise moves you closer to a cause that truly matters.
Useful Information
Getting to Bimini: We took a flight from Manchester to Miami via Heathrow. The event itself happens on the 25th of June, so we planned to arrive a week early to acclimatise to the time zone. So on 18th June, we landed in Miami and settled into an Air B&B for a few days. This gave us time to unwind without rushing. During our stay, we hired a car to explore the area and gather supplies for our Bimini adventure. On the 21st of June, our support boat Captain, Warren, and crewmate, Noof, picked us up from the Air B&B with the boat on a trailer, and together, we headed to the boat ramp. After launching the boat from Lake Worth, we embarked on the journey across the Gulf Stream to Bimini which took around 3 hours.
Arrival and Registration: Upon arrival in Bimini, we remained on the boat while the Captain completed the check-in process using our passports. Only once this is done are you able to set foot on land. Next, it’s time to register for the event. There, we met the Piper’s team, filled out event forms and waivers, and received a swag bag filled with freebies from sponsors. This included an SPF jersey, caps, carb gels, and other gifts. CF warriors were also given an additional bag containing a red wristband, helping identify them to other CFers to help maintain a safe distance.
Bimini: Bimini consists of two halves, the North Island and the South Island, each offering accommodation options. We chose the Bimini Cove Resort and Marina on the South Island, a picturesque choice we highly recommend. On the North Island, you'll find the Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina. The North Island has more shops and restaurants, but it's just a two-minute boat ride away, making it easy to access when needed. That’s the great thing about the support boat and crew, they become part of the team and you spend all week together.
Activities: Bimini offers lots of activities and sights to enjoy. We spent our time fishing at sea, exploring shipwrecks, and even feeding rays and sharks. Piper’s also organises various events, including pool parties, dinners, beach cleanups, and the extremely moving Paddle-out Rose Ceremony. During this ceremony, all paddlers gather in a circle on their boards in the ocean to honour the lives of CF warriors, past and present. Names are documented inside a bottle, which is released into the ocean during the crossing. It's an emotional and meaningful experience, filled with reflection, gratitude and joy.
The Crossing
No words can adequately prepare you for the event itself. Our experience is just that - unique to us, and rest assured, every participant from the 2023 event had their own personal journey too. That said, here are some standout moments and tips to provide a glimpse of what it's like to take part:
Preparing for Launch: Sleep! That's the most crucial piece of advice. On the event day, do very little. Relax, fuel up with carbs, and get as much rest as possible. You have a long night ahead, so just chill.
Beach Launch: The launch is monumental. Picture this - it's nearly midnight, darkness surrounds you, music fills the air on the beach, and hundreds of paddlers are illuminated by glow sticks. Boats line up in the water ahead and the atmosphere is electric. This year, we were treated to a fireworks display, and from the moment I stepped on the beach, I was filled with nervous energy. You'll be assigned a launch time slot, and when it's your turn, you'll line up, get into the water, and start paddling. This moment can be intimidating, paddling into the ocean at night defies everything you've learned about ocean safety. Follow Travis’ (Director of Piper’s) advice; stay "relaxed but energised."
Fuel: Our fuel for the Crossing consisted of carb powders in our water, wraps filled with peanut butter and jam, and a huge Tupperware container filled with rice and chicken. We also stocked high-carb gels and chocolate bars, which served as great morale boosters throughout the day. In the cooler, we carried fresh fruit too, a refreshing treat as the temperature rose.
Weather: Weather conditions are unpredictable. For us, the first five hours were gruelling, with 6-foot swells and relentless waves tossing us up and down and thunder and lightning a few miles away. Half an hour in, we all felt queasy, despite taking sea-sickness meds and we heard that many paddlers had to abandon the challenge due to seasickness, but fortunately, we persevered. After five long hours, miraculously, the waters calmed as the sun rose, transforming turbulent, unpredictable waters into a tranquil, glass-like surface. It was epic!
The Gulf Stream: Rather than a straight line, the route is an arc, and as you turn north, you’ll begin to feel the gentle, comforting assistance of the Gulf Stream rolling under the board, nudging you forward. It’s an amazing sensation, almost as if she knows exactly where you’re heading.
Expect the Unexpected: In the middle of the vast ocean, anything can happen. We covered over 60 miles and were making incredible progress when we learned of an approaching storm. We had to change our course to avoid it as it was unsafe to paddle through. Whatever challenges arise, face them head-on as a team and always stay safe. Remember; your Captain knows best.
Document Everything: This might be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I strongly urge you to document as much as possible, taking photos and videos, or asking the crew to help capture moments. Speak to the camera and share your thoughts and feelings at various points along the journey. It might feel a bit strange, especially if you're not used to it, but trust me, one day you'll be grateful for the ability to relive every stroke. Plus, all this footage can be a powerful tool for encouraging last-minute donations. So, document everything.
Beach Landing: At some point, the moment you've dreamed of will arrive, and you'll see Lake Worth Beach. It's hard to put into words how that feels. Before our launch, an experienced paddler named Shannon Lockhart stopped us on the beach and offered advice: 'Embrace the suck - before you know it, it’ll all be over.' What Shannon meant was that in the midst of this challenge, it will feel like one of the most gruelling experiences you've ever had, as if it will never end. So be present and be grateful for the opportunity. She was right; before we knew it, it was all over. The beach landing was euphoric for us, and it will be for you. You'll sprint up the beach through a massive archway, strike the gong, and stand on the podium for a well-deserved moment of glory. Savour it and be fully present, because once it's over, it truly is over.
Do Something Epic
Together, and thanks to all those who supported us, Team NEON raised over $21,000 for CF charities whilst putting the conversation of global access to Trikafta in front of thousands.
It’s hard to put into words how I feel about the experience. It was one of the most memorable things I’ve ever done. It was utterly brilliant. CFers are treated like royalty within the community and I want to encourage as many other people living with CF to go and have that experience too. I felt like a superhero all week, so I owe a huge thank you to everyone who made our trip so unforgettable.
We were four regular guys who took on something far bigger than us.Â
Totally inexperienced paddlers, with one simple goal: DO SOMETHING EPIC!
Now it’s over to you. Good luck!
Watch the documentary below:
Connect with me and watch all our crossing content: https://bio.site/marccotterill
Sign the Petition to help others gain access to Trikafta: https://bit.ly/vsupetition
Useful links:
Equipment Links: