Reveals the devastating loss his way back to the water

Down and explains how, as a dad, husband and coach, he turned his life around

everything about the sport. It’s helped keep me mentally sharp.”

In the early days of Colin’s sight loss, studying at the Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford, England, was life-changing. He learned how to live independently and qualified as a personal trainer.

But it’s also where he met his future wife, Diana, who has had blurred vision since birth due to congenital cataracts, nystagmus and glaucoma.

“Diana literally bumped right into me. She was looking at my guide dog and accidentally walked into me. I started laughing and she ran off embarrassed. I saw her later that night in the bar and we hit it off,” said Colin.

After graduating, they moved back to Scotland and now have their own house in Hamilton. They have proved a perfect match and live completely independently.

Three years ago, their son Gordon was born, named after his proud grandfather. Gordon Jr is also visually impaired but remains a typical happy and energetic three-year-old.

“When I first lost my sight I never thought I’d become a dad,” added Colin. “My proudest moment is my son being born.

“He’s our world and has changed my life. It’s not always easy but we seem to just make it work.

“We knew there would be a 50% chance he could have sight problems. We think he can see about one metre in front of him but it hasn’t held him back. He’s non-stop, always smiling and full of joy.”

Gordon Jr has already shown an interest in boats and is a future rower in the making.

“He is quick on his feet and has strong legs and that’s exactly what you need for rowing. His grandad is adamant he’ll take up rowing. I think he’ll write it into his will.

“In fact, he already has a rowing injury after he ran into a rigger and cut his forehead. My dad and I got the same injury when we were boys, so it’s a family tradition.”