Former professional swimmer, Rebecca Adlington is not only one of the most recognisable names in the sport but is the greatest swimmer Great Britain has ever produced. From Olympic gold medals to teaching the next generation to swim, Rebecca has inspired the nation and beyond with her incredible passion and achievements. A recognisable star for her sporting success, and subsequent media career, Rebecca is one of the most sought-after speakers to motivate audiences to push through boundaries and persevere to reach goals. Making history in 2008, Rebecca was aiming for bronze at her first Olympics aged 19.
However, she became one of the most talked-about underdogs of the Games when she won Gold in the 400m freestyle and Gold in the 800m freestyle, in the process she also beat the nearly two-decade-long world record for the length, a highlight of her career. Launched to international fame for her achievements, Rebecca continued her winning streak with gold at the 2011 Championships, double Commonwealth winner and named European Swimmer of the Year in 2008. Competing on home turf at the London 2012 Olympics Rebecca secured two bronze medals.
Recognised with an OBE for her achievements, Rebecca retired in 2013, after being named Sportswoman of the Year by the Spots Journalists’ Association. Since stepping back from professional swimming, Rebecca has founded Swim Stars, to support primary aged children in learning to swim and Becky Adlington Training, which qualifies top class swimming teachers. Reaming prominent in the spotlight she has also become a BBC pundit for events like the Rio Olympics 2016, Commonwealth Games and Tokyo 2020.
As such a down to earth personality, she is also a regular on celebrity series including MasterChef, I’m A Celebrity… and Come Dine With Me. Despite such incredible success both inside and out of the pool, Rebecca has recently opened up about her mental health journey, having suffered from anxiety and panic attacks due to stress. As a speaker, Rebecca can discuss the strategies she’s learned as an elite performing sportswoman in coping with pressure and other external factors relatable to a business environment.
She is also highly sought after for motivational talks, supported by her incredible career that acts as an inspiration to many.
