Mel Clarke is a world-class archer and Paralympic medallist whose journey is one of sheer resilience, determination and triumph over adversity.
Mel first discovered archery through a beginners session with her local Girl Guides group – and within just 18 months, she was representing her county. Her natural talent was quickly recognised, and she was soon competing for Great Britain, winning her first international medal in 2002.
In 2003, Mel made history as the first disabled archer in Europe to represent her country on an able-bodied team. But during the competition, she was suddenly struck down by Lyme disease – a life-threatening illness that left her paraplegic and blind in one eye. Doctors told Mel she’d never shoot again, and with sight loss in her aiming eye, her archery career seemed over.
But Mel had other ideas.
With unshakable determination and the support of her coach, she adapted her technique – learning to aim in an entirely new way by tilting her head to compensate for the vision loss. Just two years later, Mel defied the odds and became World Champion at the Para World Championships.
Over the course of her 12-year international career, Mel has won medals at every level – Club, County, Regional, National, European, and World – and holds multiple World Records. At the 2008 Beijing Paralympics, she won bronze and equalled the Paralympic record, before going one better in London 2012, proudly taking home a silver medal for Team GB.
Mel’s story is a true testament to what’s possible when passion meets perseverance. Now retired from competitive archery, she shares her journey to inspire others – proving that even the greatest setbacks can lead to new ways forward.
The Paralympic Games are a celebration of determination, talent, and breaking down barriers. In this talk, our Paralympians and para-athletes share their incredible journeys, highlighting the power of resilience, inclusion, and the human spirit. Pupils will hear how these athletes have overcome challenges, changed perceptions, and achieved greatness on the world stage, inspiring everyone to believe in what is possible.
Every athlete faces tough times, whether it’s injury, defeat, or personal challenges. In this talk, our athletes open up about the adversity they have experienced and how they found the strength to bounce back. Pupils will learn about the importance of resilience, determination, and staying positive in difficult situations. These are valuable lessons they can use in school, sport, and life.
Reaching the top in sport takes more than talent. It requires leadership and performing at your very best when it matters most. In this talk, our athletes share how they prepare to deliver under pressure, lead by example, and bring out the best in themselves and those around them. Pupils will learn how strong leadership, focus, and self-belief can help them achieve their own peak performance in school, sport, and life.
Mel was an inspirational Sporting Champion. She spoke very well during the opening ceremony and many people commented on how they felt inspired by her story. Students wanted to talk to her throughout the day to learn more about her story, feel her medals, have a photo taken with her.
Fantastic opportunity for our young athletes at CSW Sainsbury School Games to meet Mel Clarke who is an outstanding advocate for achieving in the face of adversity. Personally it was an absolute pleasure to meet Mel who is definitely an inspiration to all she meets.
Inspirational Athletes connects schools & communities with elite athletes who inspire, motivate and engage young people through talks, workshops and sports sessions.
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Inspirational Speakers has been providing high profile keynote speakers and entertainers for over 25 years.
