How To Pick The Right Olympic Speaker For Your Business

There are striking parallels between the world of business and the Olympic Games. Both rely heavily on teamwork, robust support networks, thorough preparation, a strong commitment to success - and, of course, relentless hard work.

Another notable similarity is the sheer diversity found in each arena. Just as the Olympics encompass a wide range of sports and disciplines, each with its own unique demands, businesses consist of various departments working toward a shared goal: the success of the organisation.

At Champions Olympic Speakers, we’ve identified three core business needs and matched each with a speaker who can inspire, engage, and deliver value at your event.

Improving Your Performance

Whether your business is thriving but not quite reaching its full potential or in need of significant transformation, the ideal speaker to inspire and motivate your team is an Olympic coach with a proven track record of excellence in performance.

One such expert is Keith Antoine, a seasoned coach with years of experience guiding both junior and senior athletes in Olympic and Paralympic competitions. Keith’s roster includes elite athletes such as Richard Whitehead, Stef Reid, Denise Lewis, Iwan Thomas, Jamie Baulch, Katharine Merry, Allison Curbishley, Darren Campbell and the men’s amputee 4x100m relay team.

From 2000 to 2006, Keith served as the GB Paralympic Sprints Coach, guiding athletes to success at both the Sydney and Athens Games. He was also brought back on board to support preparations for the London 2012 Games, where his athletes earned one gold and two silver medals.

With his unique combination of experience in both high-performance athletics and business management, Keith delivers dynamic, high-energy presentations designed to inspire, challenge, and elevate your workforce. His pragmatic approach and motivational style are guaranteed to help propel your business to new heights.

Starting From Scratch

In today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving world of business and commerce, the opportunity to venture into uncharted territories is always present. While the prospect of change can be intimidating - especially when it involves starting from scratch - such challenges can also lead to great rewards.

Lizzy Yarnold MBE’s journey is a powerful testament to the transformative power of embracing change. Initially a heptathlete, Lizzy’s passion for sport was sparked by watching Denise Lewis OBE compete at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

In 2008, Lizzy took part in UK Sport’s Girls4Gold initiative, a talent search that encouraged her to explore the Winter Olympic discipline of skeleton. Despite the stark contrast to her background in heptathlon, Lizzy embraced the challenge and began competing in skeleton just two years later, in 2010.

In a remarkable display of adaptability and determination, Lizzy not only mastered this new discipline but excelled at it. By 2014, she dominated the Skeleton World Cup, finishing on the podium in every race except one. Her crowning achievement came at the Sochi Olympics, where she claimed the coveted gold medal.

Lizzy’s incredible achievements didn’t stop there. In 2015, she completed a career grand slam by winning both the European Championship in February and the World Championship the following month.

With her eloquent speaking style and inspiring story, Lizzy is the perfect speaker to help businesses overcome the fear of venturing into the unknown or embarking on a new journey. Her experience proves that with the right mindset, any challenge can be transformed into an opportunity for success.

Overcoming Adversity

The world of business is far from always smooth sailing - there are countless challenges that can test even the most resilient companies, from economic downturns to unforeseen events that damage your reputation.

If your company is currently facing tough times, consider bringing in an inspirational speaker who can do more than just lift spirits - someone who can offer a fresh perspective and help your team tap into their inner strength.

Enter Lance Corporal Derek Derenalagi a celebrated British Paralympic discus thrower and former soldier. As part of the Ministry of Defence's Battle Back programme, funded by the Help for Heroes charity, Derek has become a beacon of perseverance and resilience.

In 2007, Derek survived a devastating IED attack in Afghanistan, which left him initially declared dead and ultimately led to the amputation of both his legs below the knee. What followed was an incredibly difficult journey of recovery, but Derek didn’t stop there. He went on to compete for Great Britain at the London Olympics - showing the world that no challenge is insurmountable.

Derek's story isn't just one of overcoming physical adversity; it's a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the will to push forward in the face of hardship. If your business is navigating tough times, Derek’s message will shift your perspective, reignite your team’s drive, and empower them to tackle any obstacle in their path.

Book An Olympic Speaker For Your Next Event!

Hire an inspirational business-minded Olympic speaker for your workplace training program or conference by getting in touch with Champions Olympic Speakers. Contact a dedicated booking agent today on 0207 1010 553, or complete our online form today!

Chris Tompkins

April 4th, 2025

About Chris Tompkins

Looking for an Olympic Speaker?

To discuss the details of your event or book one of our exciting Olympic and Paralympic speakers, call a booking agent at Champions Olympic Speakers on 0207 1010 553 or complete our online contact form.