Mark Foster is a former competitive swimmer, having represented Great Britain on numerous occasions. From Commonwealth Games to World Championships, Mark competed in short-course swimming, wowing audiences in the 50m butterfly and freestyle. Having since retired from swimming, Mark now dedicates his time to charity work and media appearances, alongside being booked as an engaging awards host, after-dinner speaker and presenter for corporate events.
Mark made headlines as the fastest swimmer in the country by the time he was just 15 years old. From that point on he dominated in the pool, claiming countless victories at National Championships, an impressive 14 titles in the 50 metres freestyle and 10 titles in the 50 metres butterfly. His dedication and talents were rewarded with selection to join the British team in 1985, first competing in the Commonwealth Games- his first international medal win with bronze.
After his first international medal was claimed, Mark broke the World Short Course freestyle record four times and the World Short Course butterfly record twice. Amongst winning 19 gold medals, 12 silver medals and 19 bronze medals across a variety of competitions, Mark also set the World Long Course butterfly record with an impressive time of 24.07 seconds. He was also selected to represent Great Britain during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games but unfortunately failed to qualify for the semi-finals.
Since retiring, Mark has dedicated his time to charity work and media appearances, becoming a Patron of The Anaphylaxis Campaign and an Ambassador of SportsAid. Passionate about living a healthy lifestyle and wellbeing, Mark has worked as a brand ambassador on projects encompassing such messages- previous clients including the likes of Wellman Nutritional Products, Ted Baker, Jaguar, Just For Men and more. He has also made various media appearances such as Beat the Star, Superstars, The Weakest Link, Let’s Dance for Sport Relief, Celebrity Juice, The Million Pound Drop and he has also been a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing.
In 2017, Mark made headlines after he came out publicly as gay. Now booked as host, presenter or after-dinner speaker for corporate events, Mark is hired to both share the successes of his sporting career and his sexuality- in particular how his fear to be openly gay may have negatively impacted his professional performance and mental wellbeing. Having spent 23 years as an elite athlete, Mark has learnt valuable lessons in all elements of performance, from performing under pressure to strategy and discipline. With previous clients including the likes of BT, EE and American Express, Mark is commended for being personable, accommodating and motivational in his speeches. When looking for an open, inspirational and successful speaker look no further than Mark Foster.
