James has been at the top of the sport of swimming for 10 years and knows what it takes to become the best. The former world record holder has motivated and inspired school children and businesses to want to be the best they can in their own fields.
SPORT BIOJames became a three time Olympian in 2004 and has won over 30 international medals including 13 gold during his career and knows what it takes to become the best.His first taste of winning for Great Britain came in 1992 when he claimed the silver medal in the 200m backstroke at the European Junior Championships. However by the time he became part of the senior team he had switched his attention to butterfly and in 1994 he won a bronze medal in the 200m butterfly and medley relay at the Commonwealth Games. His success continued and he became world champion (short course) in the 200m butterfly in 1997 and broke the world record a year later in both the 100m and 200m. By 2000 he had become the world champion (short course) for a third time showing his determination and desire to achieve at international level.By the time he retired in Dec 2004 he had claimed a further gold medal in the European (short course) 200m butterfly, silver in the Commonwealth Games and had recorded a British record for the 100m butterfly (short course).
SPECIALIST AREAS
Taking the Athlete’s Oath at the opening ceremony 2002 Commonwealth Games was James’ most prestigious moment with a huge TV audience. He is charismatic and has presented Grandstand’s Olympic dreams, commentated on swimming for the BBC, produced radio programmes and has a column in the Manchester Evening News.James regularly talks to a wide variety of individuals and organisations about his story of fulfilling potential across all walks of life. Enthusiastic and energetic James is much sought because he adds value to conferences and events. Charming and entertaining audiences he instils a determination to becoming the best. Having travelled the world during his career James can relate to many people and is currently an Athlete Ambassador and Advisor to the London 2012 Olympic bid. He is flexible enough to able to adapt to the needs of any event. In these competitive times, many businesses are turning to motivational speakers to help their employees achieve more through a combination of goal-setting and self-belief. See how James can ‘make a splash’ on your employees!
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