Can You Make It As An Olympic Legend?

Tom Daley, Jessica Ennis-Hill, Dame Kelly Holmes and Sir Steve Redgrave are some of the biggest names in British sport and can all be described as Olympic legends. Jason Kenny CBE heads up the British medal table with seven gold and two silver medals in track cycling events. The cyclists are zooming ahead of other athletes with Chris Hoy, Bradley Wiggins and Laura Kenny following close behind.

Following the cyclists, Sir Steve Redgrave CBE has five golds in rowing, Sir Ben Ainslie has four gold in sailing and Sir Mo Farah has four in athletics.

Away from the UK, arguably the greatest Olympic legend of them all is American swimmer Michael Phelps. Over the course of 12 years, he has amassed a staggering 28 Olympic medals, ten more than the Soviet gymnast Larisa Latynina.

To become an Olympic legend, there are essential qualities needed to reach the highest level of competition. These include:

Unwavering Commitment

Becoming an Olympic champion requires unwavering commitment and resilience. Athletes must dedicate years to intense training, pushing through physical and mental challenges. Overcoming setbacks, embracing discipline, and maintaining focus are key. Resilience helps them bounce back from failure, while commitment drives them to achieve greatness on the world stage.

Mo Farah, who has four gold medals to his name, knows a thing or two about the commitment it takes to be a champion.

Resilience

Resilience is essential for an Olympic champion because it enables athletes to overcome setbacks, persist through adversity, and maintain focus under pressure. The journey to the podium is filled with challenges, but resilience helps athletes recover from failures, stay motivated, and push beyond their limits to achieve greatness.

Hear from Usain Bolt on how he overcame failure to become the worlds fastest man:

Master the Mental Game:

Mastering the mental game is crucial for Olympians, as it enhances focus, resilience, and adaptability under pressure. Mental strength allows athletes to overcome setbacks, push through pain, and stay determined despite challenges. By cultivating a positive mindset, Olympians can unlock their full potential and perform at the highest level.

Derek Redmond knows all about the mental resilience it takes to finish a race.

Find A Coach That Fits Your Needs

Sport is full of different personalities. Some are big, some are less so, but when it comes to getting the perfect coach it is important to find someone who matches your needs. To be an Olympic legend you need someone who pushes you to the limit but is also able to give solid advice which can help you progress as an athlete.

When you find the perfect coach for you the rewards can be amazing. A good example of a great sporting partnership is Charles Van Comenee who worked as heptathlete Denise Lewis’ coach for many years and helped her win gold at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Another remarkable coach-athlete pairing is Charlotte Evans and Kelly Gallagher. Coach Charlotte became Kelly's sighted guide and supported the Paralympian in the Alpine Skiing event, leading to Great Britain’s first-ever Winter Paralympic gold medal during Sochi 2014.

Hear from Charlotte about the importance of teamwork:

Hire an Olympic Star for Your Next Event!

Another way to become an Olympic legend is to get inspiration from stars. Here at Champions Olympic Speakers, we have an abundance of excellent Olympic legends who are perfect for all events. For booking information call 0207 1010 553 or complete our online booking form.