Heptathlete Denise Lewis is best known for winning gold at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. In July 2009, Denise became an International Inspiration Ambassador.
Biography
As well as winning gold at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, despite carrying an injury to her Achilles tendon, Denise's career medal haul includes a bronze medal from Atlanta 1996, two golds from the 1998 and 1994 Commonwealth Games, two World Championship silver medals and gold in the European Championships.
Denise is currently a judge for BA’s Great Britons Bursary Scheme and a school sports ambassador for the Youth Sports Trust. In 2000, Denise was awarded an OBE. In 2004, Denise took part in the BBC television show Strictly Come Dancing. Partnered alongside professional dancer Ian Waite, she reached the final and achieved second place.
Denise passionately supported the London bid to host the 2012 Games, and was part of the delegation present in Singapore in 2005 when the announcement was made that London was successful in its campaign.
A few words from Denise
‘The magic of the Olympics is something that has captivated me since I was a child. Since I first saw an athletics track, I dreamed of the day that I would compete for my country. I was fortunate enough to fulfil that dream. The chance to be involved in sport should be available to all children, giving them the opportunity for a while to forget about some of the challenges they face.
‘That is what makes International Inspiration such a unique programme; it aims to give millions of children around the world the opportunity to get involved in sport, for the first time for some. During the bid, London 2012 promised to extend the Games legacy to millions of children worldwide and International Inspiration will ensure this promise is fulfilled for years to come.'
