Helen Glover

Helen Glover is a celebrated British rower and inspirational figure in the world of sport, widely recognised for her tenacity, resilience, and remarkable achievements. A two-time Olympic champion and multiple World and European titleholder, she has risen to become one of Britain’s most successful female athletes. Helen is regularly hired as a motivational speaker for her ability to connect deeply with audiences, drawing on her experiences of overcoming setbacks, making historic comebacks, and balancing elite sport with motherhood. Her story resonates not only with aspiring athletes but also with professionals and organisations seeking inspiration, leadership, and perspective on high performance and perseverance.

Helen’s journey to the top was not a traditional one. Born in Cornwall, she initially trained as a PE teacher in 2008 applied to the “Sporting Giants” scheme, and was placed on the GB Rowing Team’s “Start” programme. With no rowing background prior to her early twenties, she rapidly climbed the ranks, winning her first international medal in 2010. Her landmark moment came in 2012 when, alongside Heather Stanning, she won Britain’s first gold medal of the London Olympics and the first ever for British women’s rowing. Helen’s success was grounded in hard work, mental discipline, and an unshakeable belief in pushing limits – values she now shares in her keynote speeches.

After a brief retirement following her second Olympic gold at Rio 2016 to start a family, Helen made a stunning return to competition in 2021, becoming the first mother to row for Britain at the Olympics. Since then, she has added numerous accolades to her name, including a European title, World Championship bronze, and a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She was also chosen as a flag bearer at the Paris Opening Ceremony – a testament to her status and influence. Most recently, Helen was appointed OBE in the 2025 New Year’s Honours List, recognising her outstanding contribution to sport.

Organisations and event hosts turn to Helen for her compelling personal journey, which combines elite sport with determination, resilience, and reinvention. Her ability to motivate others through lived experience, delivered with authenticity and humour, makes her an ideal speaker for corporate events, educational settings, and leadership conferences.