Dame Kelly Holmes (MBE mil)

Dame Kelly Holmes clinched two Olympic gold medals at the 2004 Athens Olympics, making history as only the third woman to win both the 800m and 1500m events at the same Games, and becoming Britain’s first double gold medallist at a single Olympics since 1920. This extraordinary feat, achieved after years of battling injuries, solidified her legacy as one of the UK’s most decorated athletes. In recognition of her services to athletics, she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2005. Her illustrious career began with early success, winning the English Schools 1500 meters in 1983.

Following her double Olympic triumph, Dame Kelly received widespread recognition, including the prestigious BBC Sports Personality of the Year award in 2004 and the Laureus World Sports Award for Sportswoman of the Year in 2005. Retiring from athletics in 2005, she channeled her passion for youth development by establishing the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust in 2008. This registered charity is dedicated to supporting young athletes and empowering disadvantaged young people across the UK, leveraging sport to build resilience and life skills. Beyond her charitable endeavors, Dame Kelly has continued to be a prominent figure in sports and advocacy.

She served as President of Commonwealth Games England from 2009 and was inducted into the England Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010. A prolific author, she has penned five books, sharing her journey and insights. In 2018, she was appointed honorary colonel with the Royal Armoured Corps Training Regiment, continuing her association with the military. Dame Kelly remains a highly sought-after motivational speaker, inspiring audiences globally with her story of discipline, perseverance, and triumph.