Ellie Simmonds

With ten world records to her name, Eleanor 'Ellie' Simmonds is a four-time Paralympic swimming champion who shot to fame when, at just 13 years old, she won two gold medals for Great Britain in the 2008 Summer Paralympics in Beijing. As a result of her achievements, she was awarded the BBC Young Sports Personality Of The Year 2008, becoming the youngest ever winner of this prestigious award.

Since her meteoric rise into the public eye, Ellie has continued to dominate in her sport, winning thirteen World titles, ten European titles and breaking eight world records along the way. Competing in the London 2012 Paralympics, she won four medals, including two golds, and broke a further two world records. At the 2016 Rio Paralympics, Ellie defended her gold medal for the 200 m individual medley, setting another new world record. She also won a bronze medal in the 400 m freestyle.

Ellie, who has Achondroplasia dwarfism, started swimming at the age of five and was competing against other children by the age of eight. Two years later, her talent was spotted at a swimming event and she was entered onto the British Swimming Talent Programme. She worked her way through to be selected as the youngest member of a senior British swimming squad for the 2006 IPC World Championships, just after her 12th birthday.

At 14 years old, Ellie became the youngest person ever to be appointed a Member Of The Order Of The British Empire (MBE). She was subsequently appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2013 New Year Honours, for services to Paralympic sport.

Ellie Simmonds' success has made her one of the most recognised Paralympic athletes in the UK. Her story has captured both the hearts and minds of the British public, and as such she makes an inspired choice for a Guest Appearance or After-dinner Speaker. To book her, contact Prime Performers via the online booking enquiry form or alternatively call us on 020 3500 3331 to discuss your requirements.