Ex-Rugby Player Breaks Record with Historic Caledonian Canal Swim

Former professional rugby union player Iain Sinclair has made history by becoming the first individual to swim the entire length of the Caledonian Canal. This remarkable feat was undertaken in memory of Jenny Hastings, the late wife of former Scotland rugby international Scott Hastings, who tragically took her own life at the age of 60 last year.

Jenny, an avid athlete and advocate for mental health, had gone missing during a swim at Wardie Bay in Edinburgh. Her body was discovered several days later, prompting an outpouring of grief from the community and those who knew her. In a heartfelt tribute, Iain reflected on Jenny’s “courageous battle” with mental health issues, noting her ability to inspire others through her passion for outdoor swimming.

The swim, which spanned a total of 60 miles, concluded in Inverness, where Iain was met by a visibly moved Scott Hastings. Scott expressed his admiration for his friend on social media, stating he was “in total awe” of Iain’s dedication and determination.

Honoring Memories and Raising Awareness

On the day of Jenny’s disappearance in September 2022, she had been visited by a mental health practitioner after experiencing a severe episode of depression. Scott had planned to join her for a swim in the Firth of Forth, a location that held significant meaning for Jenny as a “place of healing.” When Scott noticed her buoyancy aid nearby but could not see her, he immediately contacted the coastguard. Tragically, Jenny’s body was recovered five days later, coincidentally on the couple’s wedding anniversary.

Jenny had battled depression for over 20 years, and Scott shared that there had been several troubling episodes throughout her life. Iain’s swim not only serves as a tribute to Jenny but also as a means to raise awareness for mental health issues. The support team accompanying Iain included Scott and his family, who were present throughout the challenging journey.

Iain’s swim along the canal, which connects the North Sea to the Atlantic Ocean, is particularly noteworthy. While others have successfully swum the individual lochs, such as Loch Ness, Iain received special permission from Scottish Canals to navigate through its four lochs and 29 lock gates.

Over the course of eight days, Iain spent approximately six hours each day in the chilly waters, culminating in his triumphant finish on a Monday in Inverness. His journey was documented through stunning photographs taken by his friend Rob Eyton-Jones, who was also part of the support team.

Through this monumental effort, Iain has raised over £60,000 for Crohn’s & Colitis UK, the British Heart Foundation, and Mikeysline, a charity dedicated to supporting mental health. Scott Hastings remarked on Iain’s inspiring endeavor, saying, “He’s been an inspiration for me, and it’s just taking that legacy forward. Jenny would’ve loved to have seen Iain doing what he’s doing and would be so proud of him.”

Iain’s swim is not just a personal achievement; it is a heartfelt homage to Jenny Hastings and a powerful statement on the importance of mental health awareness.