Sam Ruddock is a true example of resilience, reinvention, and the power of saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities.
A multi-discipline Paralympian and World Champion, Sam’s sporting career began just months before the London 2012 Games – and his journey since then has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Sport wasn’t always on Sam’s radar. Growing up with cerebral palsy, he saw sport as a way to keep fit, rather than something to pursue seriously. But in late 2011, while studying at university, a coach suggested he try sprinting – a sport he had previously avoided. Despite his doubts, Sam took the leap, was classified as a T35 athlete in March 2012, and just weeks later was competing internationally. By June, he was ranked in the world’s top 8, earning selection for ParalympicsGB at the London 2012 Games.
After the Games, Sam shifted focus to shot put, quickly rising through the ranks. He achieved top-five finishes at the European and World Championships, and won silver at the 2016 European Championships before going on to compete at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.
Never one to stand still, Sam then took on a new challenge – para-cycling. In 2019 he was selected to represent Great Britain at the Para Cycling Track World Championships, and just three years later, he became World Champion in the C1 1000m Time Trial – a title he successfully defended in 2023.
Alongside his impressive sporting achievements, Sam is passionate about using his platform to inspire others. He works as an athlete mentor with the Youth Sport Trust and is part of the Sky Sports Living for Sport programme, helping young people understand the value of sport, education, and determination. Whether he’s speaking in schools, at corporate events, or to aspiring athletes, Sam’s message is clear: anything is possible with the right mindset.
Every athlete faces tough times, whether it’s injury, defeat, or personal challenges. In this talk, our athletes open up about the adversity they have experienced and how they found the strength to bounce back. Pupils will learn about the importance of resilience, determination, and staying positive in difficult situations. These are valuable lessons they can use in school, sport, and life.
The Paralympic Games are a celebration of determination, talent, and breaking down barriers. In this talk, our Paralympians and para-athletes share their incredible journeys, highlighting the power of resilience, inclusion, and the human spirit. Pupils will hear how these athletes have overcome challenges, changed perceptions, and achieved greatness on the world stage, inspiring everyone to believe in what is possible.
Having a growth mindset means believing you can improve through effort, learning, and perseverance. In this talk, our athletes explain how this way of thinking has helped them deal with setbacks, learn from mistakes, and keep improving, no matter the odds. Pupils will be encouraged to embrace challenges, stay positive, and understand that hard work and resilience lead to progress in sport and in life.
Inclusion and diversity are essential for creating a positive and supportive environment for everyone. In this talk, our athletes share their experiences of embracing differences, breaking down barriers, and building inclusive teams. Pupils will be inspired to celebrate diversity, foster understanding, and stand up for others, both in sport and in all areas of life.
Thank you so much. Sam himself was lovely and extremely engaging with the students. His PowerPoint and his messages were excellent, he managed to tie his talk neatly in to working hard at school which was just perfect!!! I couldn’t thank him enough. Thank you so much for organising for us and we would happily use you guys again in the future.
Sam was a great asset to the event, he was very encouraging and motivational to the young people. Everyone wanted to meet him and get his autograph and ask him questions.
Inspirational Athletes connects schools & communities with elite athletes who inspire, motivate and engage young people through talks, workshops and sports sessions.
Address:
Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 1RD
Phone:
020 7993 2724
Inspirational Speakers has been providing high profile keynote speakers and entertainers for over 25 years.
