Lindsay LeBlanc Dominates the 2025 Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis – Overcoming Challenges and Elevating Awareness

This year the Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis was no easy feat. Not only do paddlers have to paddle 80 miles from Bimini in the Bahamas, to Lake Worth in Florida, they also have to navigate paddling through the dark, and rough waters. Those challenges did not seem to deter Lindsay LeBlanc from paddling hard, and winning this years Crossing event with a time of 15 hours, 17 minutes, and 18 seconds! After being unable to participate in the 2024 crossing, the stars aligned for her for this years event. Today on TotalSUP we sat down with Lindsay to talk about her experience and what the crossing meant to her.

Hi Lindsay! Welcome back to TotalSUP today! What motivated you to participate in this year’s Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis race?

We come for the cause and stay for the community. This is my 4th crossing and it’s such an infectious event to be apart of. I was especially motivated this year after 2024 falling short, as well as to race along side some of my best friends. 

We’re so stoked you came back and absolutely crushed this years race! How did you prepare physically and mentally for the race?

It’s never too early to start training for this event. Paddling has become such a staple in my life, as a great workout, therapy session, and social activity with friends. Cross training in the gym, running, and long overnight paddles with friends have been some of the most beneficial parts of my training.

It is never too early to start training for 80 miles that’s for sure! Can you share some of your favorite moments from this year’s event?

Actually had a ton of fun in the water! The swell was great for bump riding. Enjoying the snorkeling and fishing in Bimini. And of course attempting handstand on our boards with Lindsey Tilton. 

We’re so happy to hear you had a blast! What challenges did you face during the race, and how did you overcome them?

“When you get knocked down, you get back up” was my mantra the entire way across. Both literally and figuratively (I lost count of how many times I fell) but never once did it cross my mind that I wouldn’t finish this crossing going beach to beach. 

Only the best paddlers continue to get back up! How does it feel to be this year’s winner of the Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis race?

Amazing and a little unbelievable still. But it was a goal I worked hard for and knew was attainable. 

What message would you like to send to others living with cystic fibrosis or supporting the cause?

As a supporter- knowledge is power! Research and learn what you can- whether it’s about CF or something else you’re passionate about- and share it with anyone and everyone. Words can hold a lot of power and passion will always shine through. We never know how truly impactful our advocacy can be. 

Did you set any personal goals for this year’s race, and did you achieve them?

My biggest goal was to go Iron as a solo competitor, which was a goal I had been chasing since 2019. Going iron during a rough year makes achieving it just a little bit sweeter. 

How does participating in this race impact your connection to the cystic fibrosis community?

Watching cf warrior Rylee Walker train so hard and pour her heart into her crossing was not only inspiring but a great reminder of WHY this event is happening and how grateful I am to be apart of it.

Are there any particular individuals or groups you want to thank for their support?

The biggest thank you always goes to my captain and crew Tim and Jay! They’ve gotten me safely across the ocean four times now and I couldn’t imagine a better crossing without them.

What are your future plans related to advocating for cystic fibrosis awareness and research?

Just continuing to participate with Piper’s Angels and sharing what an incredible impact they’ve been in the CF community.

Thank you for joining us Lindsay and congratulations again on your incredible feat! We’re so proud of you and cannot wait to see what you do next!

To find out more about The Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis visit www.crossingforcysticfibrosis.com

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