Speaker Profile

A constant fixture on the national team for many years, Steve Backley was one of the country's most popular track and field athletes. His long and distinguished career established him as one of the all time greats of javelin throwing. During this time he won many medals including two Olympic silvers and one Olympic bronze, two silvers at the World Championships, and four European golds. He also set three world javelin records, and was ranked in the world top ten every year from 1989 to 2002.

Steve enjoyed considerable success as a junior, and early on in his senior career he became the first Briton to to be ranked world number 1. However, it wasn't until 1990 that he really made an impression - at the Stockholm Grand Prix his life changed forever when he became the first British male to set a world record in a throwing event.

In the summer of 1992 Steve took bronze at the Olympics in Barcelona, and four years later he went one better with a silver. Another silver medal followed at Sydney 2000.

Steve made the decision to hang up his javelin following the Olympic Games in Athens. Still at the top of his game, he finished in a very respectable fourth position. Since retirement he has pursued a number of business interests, including working alongside fellow Olympian Roger Black. He is also the author of three books, has worked as a commentator for the BBC and is involved with several charities. In 2012 he had the honour of being a torch bearer for the London Olympics and was also a Team GB Ambassador.

Steve has many years experience as a corporate speaker under his belt, employing a relaxed, but inspirational approach to his delivery. He is a hit with audiences both young and old, and is able to connect with people from all walks of life.

Steve was awarded the MBE in 1995 and the OBE in 2002.