James Cracknell, OBE, is a double Olympic gold medallist, broadcaster, and celebrated high-performance speaker. Widely recognised for his outstanding accomplishments in rowing and endurance sport, James inspires audiences with his story of resilience, determination, and excellence. From the early days at Kingston Grammar School to standing atop the Olympic podium, his career reflects a relentless drive for success that has established him as one of Britain’s most accomplished athletes.
James rose to prominence as part of the legendary British coxless fours, rowing alongside Sir Steve Redgrave and Sir Matthew Pinsent. The crew won three consecutive World Championships and captured Olympic gold at the Sydney 2000 Games. He went on to secure a second Olympic gold medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics. In 2019, James made history again by becoming the oldest ever competitor – and winner – of The Boat Race. He now lends his experience to coaching, holding key roles with both the Cambridge University Boat Club and the GB Rowing Team.
Beyond competitive rowing, James has taken on some of the world’s toughest endurance challenges, from the Atlantic Rowing Race to the Marathon des Sables. These extreme feats have been featured in a number of acclaimed documentaries, many of which James has also hosted, including series for the BBC and Discovery Channel. His ability to push physical and mental limits continues to captivate audiences around the world, whether through television or live appearances.
In addition to his athletic and broadcasting success, James is a respected BBC reporter, covering the Olympics and European Rowing Championships. He is also a bestselling author, having co-written The Crossing, which recounts his Atlantic adventure. Whether speaking to corporate teams or sporting organisations, James brings an unmatched perspective on performance under pressure, teamwork, and overcoming adversity—motivating others to challenge boundaries and strive for their own personal best.
