Lisa is Canadian born, but is now a citizen of the world. She lives a life at sea, and relishes in the triumphs and tribulations of this lifestyle. She is passionate about her work with at risk youth, and inspiring the next generation of change makers.
team ocean grown
Rowing for a cause!
Team OG is rowing with the goal of creating a fund aiding youth “aging-out” of foster care to pursue careers in the maritime sector.
Two women working in the male dominated sailing industry.
Lisa and Nini have over 60,000 nautical miles at sea shared between them.
They came together after meeting in the sailing world, both ready to take on the challenge of a lifetime. Each woman has cultivated their interest in the competition in different ways, and come together as a strong, resilient team ready to take on the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge.
Team OG
Nini Champion
Rigging Technician
Nini Champion grew up in a sailing town and throughout her life has enjoyed exploring the world and what it has to offer by way of the sea. Her sailing experience and background in environmental science fuel her inspiration to expand her studies to the ocean.
Shore-based
Charlie Pitcher
Team Coach
As the Atlantic world record holder, we are incredibly lucky to have the vast knowledge and expertise of a true legend in the sport of ocean rowing. Founder of Rannoch Adventure, Charlie is not only our coach, but is building the R25 pairs boat we will race.
Jenny Matthews & Natasha Ambrose
Founders of She of the Sea
Founders of the maritime industry diversity initiative She of the Sea and LegaSea. Jenny & Tash are true change makers and their involvement in our mission objective will help implement lasting and meaningful change.
Belinda Henry
Wellness Coach
As an integrative health practitioner and professional sailor, Bel will be providing education on foundational lifestyle changes and nutrition to improve our health and wellness for our optimal performance in training during the Atlantic row and post race recovery.
Jimmie Cockerill
Team Manager
Owner and co-founder of The Rigging Company, a business that operates on complete, high-quality sailboat rigging parts and services. From managing his teams and businesses, to providing oversight to the TeamOG ops, planning, and shore support.
NEKA
NPO Affiliate
The Northeast Keelboat Alliance is our 5013(c) sponsor, meaning donations made through NEKA are tax deductible. NEKA is a non-profit dedicated to training the next generation of sailors to race at the highest levels in keelboat racing. They will also provide trade training and milebuilding for our deck candidates.
YachtifyTV
Video Editor
YachtifyTV specializes in video content and brand promotion. In particular: advertisements, popular television and YouTube projects, working with bloggers, conducting interviews with experts and founders of major companies, and developing new formats and trends.
Sonya Patton
Social Media Manager
As co-captain of SV Gemini, and founder of Social Nomad Media, Sonya helps marine-related businesses shine in the online space. She brings her wealth of knowledge both in seafaring and digital media to be the voice of Team OG as we take on the Atlantic Ocean.