Christened Carys Davina – Tanni comes from her sister calling her “tiny” after she was born – this incredible athlete became a Dame in 2005 for her services to sport. Five years later, she was given a life peerage.
Tanni’s first win came at the 1992 London Wheelchair Marathon, which was followed by four gold medals at the 1992 Barcelona Paralympics later the same year. Her wins were in the 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m races, while she also won a silver in the 4 x 100m relay. At the same games, the Olympic speaker managed to be the first woman to break the 400m one-minute barrier. In her sports speeches, Tanni discusses her journey to sporting gold, taking her audience on a journey from amateur to professional.
Four years later in Atlanta, Tanni came first in the 800m and second in the 100m, 200m and 400m races. Another four years later at the 2000 Sydney Paralympic Games, Tanni’s haul of gold medals was supplemented by wins in the 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m distances. Tanni appeared in retired following the 2004 Athens Paralympic Games where she won gold in the 100m and 400m.
She is now on the boards of the London Marathon, Sports Aid Foundation, Transport for London, the London Legacy Development Corporation and the London 2017 Organising Committee. She is also Chancellor of Northumbria University. As a speaker, Tanni is highly regarded for her expert knowledge and insightful discussions, which range from competing as a disabled athlete to cultivating teamwork. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Tanni served as an expert commentator, providing analysis and insights on the Paralympic Games as part of Channel 4's broadcast team.
Most recently Tanni has received an esteemed accolade in reward for her achievements throughout her career. At the 2019 BBC Sports Personality Awards Tanni proved victorious, claiming the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award. This award is given to a special someone who has made a significant contribution to sports throughout their career. Tanni has without a doubt made a significant impact on the sporting industry, with her drive and determination to overcome adversity being central to everything that she does.
Four gold medals at the 1992 Barcelona Paralympic Games
Gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games
Gold medal at the 1998 Birmingham World Championships
Five gold medals at the 2000 Sydney Paralympic Games
Two gold medals at the 2004 Athens Paralympic Games
Gold medal at the 2006 Assen World Championships
Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2019 BBC Sports Personality Awards
"Tanni gave a real insight into what it takes to be a top athlete and to remain there for 16 years - an inspiration to all present."
"- Guinness
"An excellent key note presentation at the Towards World Class HR in the North West Conference. Thank you for your valuable contribution."
"- NHS North West Conference
"Very engaging and open about her experiences. She had some very clear messages. Tanni was also very funny, and giving of her time."
"- Leadership Foundation for Higher Education
"Exceptional"
"- Local Government Association
"Tanni was a terrific speaker. She was able to tailor her message and really make it applicable to the wider context of our conference"
"- Lloyds TSB Bank Plc
"Please can you pass on our thanks to Tanni for joining us at our event at Hilton St Annes Manor last night. It was a pleasure to meet her and hear her inspirational journey. Feedback from delegates on the night was really good, and they were very engaged during the Q&As."
"- The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants
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