Sharron Davies
Former Olympic Swimmer & Star of BBC Sports Coverage
Sharron Davies, a celebrated sports icon, holds a special place in the hearts of many. Bursting onto the scene in 1976 at just 13 years old, she revolutionized the world of swimming. Over her illustrious career, she set over 200 British records and became a 20-time British Champion. Today, Sharron is also a popular television personality, Olympic commentator, model, author, and fundraiser, making her a beloved figure for fans of all ages.
Sharron’s journey to stardom began with her participation in the Montreal 1976 Olympic Games. At 14, she won two European bronze medals and two gold medals at the 1978 Commonwealth Games in the 200m and 400m Individual Medley events. Her success continued with a silver medal at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. After initially retiring at 19 to pursue media, she returned to competitive swimming in 1989, reclaiming her national title. She captained the British Commonwealth Games squad in 1990, winning silver and bronze medals.
Throughout her career, Sharron was recognized for her contributions to sports and media, being twice named the British Press Sportswoman of the Year. She set five World Masters records and was awarded an MBE for her services to swimming. Retiring from competition in 1994, Sharron transitioned into a successful media career. As a prominent TV figure, she has been a key commentator for the BBC at numerous Olympic Games, including Seoul, Atlanta, Sydney, Athens, Beijing, and London.
Sharron's media presence extended beyond sports commentary. She was a familiar face on shows like The Big Breakfast, Superstars, and Gladiators, and even hosted ITV's Perfect Parenting. She shared her expertise through publications in Total Sport, Cosmopolitan, and The Independent, and appeared on popular UK shows such as Question of Sport, Dancing on Ice, and Britain's Best Dish. Her engaging personality and on-screen talent made her a frequent guest on various TV programs, including the comedy series French and Saunders.
In addition to her media work, Sharron is a dedicated charity advocate. She co-founded the Swim for Life event with Princess Diana, raising millions for charity. Her extensive career and life experiences make her a compelling keynote speaker for International Women's Day. Sharron's speeches are characterized by her motivational insights, candid storytelling, and ability to connect with audiences. Whether discussing peak performance or personal growth, her presentations are engaging and inspirational, making her a valuable addition to any event.
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