It is with great sadness, and deep gratitude, that we remember Chris Allix – a remarkable supporter of Sailing for the Disabled, and an extraordinary individual whose determination, generosity, and spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew his story.
Chris came to many people’s attention in 2012, when – approaching his 60th birthday and encouraged to “lose a little weight” – he chose not the easy path, but an extraordinary one. He set out to kayak from the Isle of Man to Monaco: a journey of around 2,000 miles, spanning seas, rivers, and canals.
What followed was nothing short of remarkable.
Over 85 days, Chris battled fatigue, unpredictable weather and the sheer physical and mental demands of such an undertaking. Along the way, he not only transformed his own health, losing six stone, but raised thousands of pounds for causes close to his heart, including Sailing for the Disabled.
That support meant a great deal to our charity. Chris’s efforts helped us continue our mission of enabling people of all abilities to experience the freedom, confidence, and joy that sailing brings. Every mile he paddled carried that purpose with it.
But beyond the statistics – the miles, the days, the funds raised – what stands out most is Chris himself.
He showed us what determination truly looks like.
He showed us that adventure has no age limit.
And he showed us that with purpose, even the most ambitious ideas can become reality.
At Sailing for the Disabled, we see every day how powerful it is when someone chooses to do something not just for themselves, but for others. Chris embodied that choice in the most extraordinary way.
We are proud to have been one of the charities he supported, and we remain deeply thankful for his contribution.