Episode 147: Di, Colin & e-Matilda

Tandem Adventures in the UK and France

Meet Colin Calder and Di Lockhart, an inspiring Scottish couple. It was a hot and sunny day on the Canal du Midi when I came across this awesome couple eating an ice cream to beat the heat. We agreed to get together for a podcast interview and I’m so glad I did. Colin and Di shared their journey from meeting on a blind tandem date to cycling through life’s adventures with grace and a real dose of Scottish humour as well.

From Blind Date to Tandem Adventures

Colin and Di’s story began uniquely on a blind date where they took a ride on a tandem bicycle around beautiful Loch Katrine, in the Trossarchs area of Scotland. They didn’t know it then but this spontaneous pedal would be the beginning of a beautiful relationship and the start of a shared passion for tandem cycling. Soon after, they became the proud owners of their tandem bike, affectionately named Matilda – the story behind acquiring this one is quite a hoot! After a few years they thenupgraded to an e-tandem, named E-Matilda of course!

Their tandem adventures have so far taken them across Scotland, England, and into France, and their routes are always inspired by a love for exploring local wines, and foods. Travelling on a tandem has been a great way to experience new areas and each ride brings about new experiences and a promise of a much deserved ‘prosecco picnic’.

When it comes to the dynamics of riding a tandem they shared that the relationship between pilot and stoker requires a lot of communication. The pilot has full control of steering as well as braking. Riding a tandem is really about partnership, trust, and communication. Colin and Di’s relationship mirrors their tandem cycling which is a seamless blend of support and mutual understanding. While they have tried to share the roles of stoker and pilot Colin isn’t keen on being on the back at all!

An Unexpected Diagnosis

The highs of their cycling adventures were met with a significant challenge in late 2024, when Colin was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer. The diagnosis was a blow out of the blue, but Colin and Di have chosen to focus on living life to the fullest. Encouraged by doctors to maintain muscle mass and bone strength, cycling has now become even more crucial to Colin’s health regimen.

Living Life Fully

The couple didn’t let this diagnosis slow them down. Instead, their focus has shifted to living each day with purpose. In July, they took on the Grand Départ Classic, completing 115 miles of the Tour de France’s first stage, raising significant funds for Prostate Cancer UK in the process. This was also their longest ride ever and my meeting with them on the Canal du Midi was literally just a few days after this.

Despite the challenges, during the interview what really came across for me was their optimistic outlook, resilience and the key message that life is for living, even in the face of adversity. They continue to plan future bike tours, highlighting their passion for exploring and embracing every moment together.

Takeaways

Colin and Di’s story is a great reminder of the strength found in partnership and the importance of seizing life’s adventures. I hope that when you listen to their story in this episode it gives you the inspiration to embrace adventure, with an extra dose of resilience if necessary, and to always look forward to the journeys ahead.

For more on Colin and Di’s adventures, be sure to visit their blog “Matilda’s Musings,” where they share stories from the road and their continual zest for life.

The Seek Travel Ride podcast