Against the Tide: Major Stephanie Bigelow RMC 2008 Makes History in the English Channel

In August 2025, Major Stephanie Bigelow (RMC Class of 2008) achieved what only a handful of athletes worldwide—and just two members of the Canadian Armed Forces—have ever accomplished: a successful solo swim across the English Channel.

Covering an estimated 58 kilometres in approximately 14 hours, Maj Stephanie Bigelow completed the demanding crossing between France and England under some of the most challenging conditions imaginable. Forced by weather to begin her swim at night, she faced darkness, rough seas, jellyfish stings, and the intense mental strain that accompanies hours alone in open water.

A former member of the Canadian Junior National Swim Team, Maj Bigelow drew on years of competitive experience—but she is quick to note that success in Channel swimming is primarily mental. “Especially with swimming, it’s 90% mental, 10% physical,” she reflected, describing how she relied on discipline, routine, and mental focus to push through moments of fear and exhaustion.

Her preparation was as remarkable as the swim itself. Planning a Channel crossing often takes years and requires securing a support vessel, assembling a trained crew, and meticulous physical preparation. While posted in Kingston, Maj Bigelow completed much of her training in Lake Ontario and was supported throughout by fellow members of the Canadian Armed Forces who served as part of her boat crew during the crossing.

Today, Maj Bigelow serves as the Canadian Forces Health Services base surgeon at the Royal Military College in Kingston. Her Channel swim places her in extraordinary company: she is only the second member—and the second woman—in CAF history to complete the crossing, following Winnie Roach in 1951.

Reflecting on the achievement, she underscored the quiet strength and perseverance behind it. “It speaks to the grit of women,” she said, noting with pride that only women in Canada’s military have completed this iconic swim.

RMC alumni such as Major Stephanie Bigelow exemplify the values instilled at the College—discipline under pressure, commitment to service, and the resolve to lead by example. Her accomplishment stands as an inspiration to the entire RMC community and a powerful reminder of what is possible through perseverance, preparation, and purpose.