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West Coast Challenge Expedition Secures Kokatat’s Support

Sea Kayaker to paddle entire west coast of Scotland to Outer Hebrides


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ARCATA, Calif., (Feb. 14, 2011) Kokatat, the 40 year-old independent paddle wear and accessories company, is proud to support Scotland’s Bruce Jolliffe on his solo expedition to sea kayak the west coast of Scotland to the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. The trip was designed by Jolliffe’s inspiration to paddle, in memory of his friend who passed away from a rare bone cancer, from his hometown in Largs, to his late friend’s home in Stornoway. The expedition is expected to take 3 weeks and is set to depart March 7.

The 313-mile route demands challenging navigation around exposed headlands, open crossings and unforgiving tidal waters of the North Atlantic during the current winter conditions. Jolliffe, a 24-year veteran kayaker, is fully aware of the difficulties presented by this complex and remote stretch of UK’s coastline.



“There’s no doubt this is a serious undertaking at any time of year and a winter passage is something not to be taken lightly,” said Jolliffe. “This is going to be the coldest, toughest, longest paddling trip I’ve ever done. I’m as prepared as anyone could be.”

In addition to fulfilling Jolliffe’s pipedream and tribute to his close friend, the West Coast Challenge is also raising money for charities such as the Royal Marsden Cancer Hospital, Beatson Oncology Fund, and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

Kokatat is pleased to help combat Jolliffe’s battle with the cold winter conditions by providing him with Kokatat gear including the GORE-TEX® Expedition Dry Suit, MsFIT Tour PFD, Polartec® Powerdry® Liner, and Surfskin Strap Cap.

To follow the journey, make a donation or learn more about Jolliffe, please visit, http://westcoastkayakchallenge.co.uk/. Also, be sure to check out Kokatat’s blog at: http://blog.kokatat.com/.

About Kokatat Watersports Wear

Celebrating 40 years of innovation, Kokatat is an independently operated, US manufacturer of technical apparel and accessories for water sports. Handcrafted in Arcata, California, Kokatat employees are focused on building the finest functional product for people who work and play on water. Our gear is designed for paddlers, by paddlers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the water all year long and in all weather conditions. Into the water with Kokatat! Please visit www.kokatat.com and follow Kokatat on Facebook and Twitter “@kokatat”.