Rachael Mackenzie’s journey to the top of her sport is anything but typical – and that’s exactly what makes her story so inspiring.
A naturally talented all-rounder, Rachael represented her County in hockey, netball and cross-country while at school. But it wasn’t until university that she stumbled upon the sport that would change her life. A chance visit to a Thai boxing class, originally just to stay fit for hockey, quickly became a passion – and later, a profession.
Initially training just for fun, Rachael grew frustrated at being the only female in the gym and demanded to be given a fight. A week later, she stepped into the ring for the first time, and although she lost on points, her love for the sport was sealed. From there, Rachael committed herself fully, going on to defeat British, European, and World Champions – and in 2006, she reached No.1 in the Women’s Thai Boxing World Rankings in both the 50kg and 52kg categories.
After a serious knee injury forced her to stop competing in Thai boxing, Rachael demonstrated her trademark resilience by switching sports entirely. Taking up boxing, she quickly made her mark – winning silver at the National Championships in her first season, claiming silver at the 2016 ABA Elite Championships, and eventually becoming the British Boxing Champion, representing England at international level.
Today, Rachael is a powerful advocate for sport’s ability to build confidence, discipline, and resilience. She’s an experienced speaker and role model, working with young people through school visits and as part of the Sky Sports Living for Sport Athlete Mentor Team.
Whether she’s speaking about overcoming setbacks, breaking down barriers, or standing your ground in a male-dominated sport, Rachael’s story resonates – proving that with belief and determination, anything 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.
What makes a team truly successful? Our athletes reveal the secrets behind high performing teams, whether it is a sports squad, a relay team, or a support network behind the scenes. They share how trust, clear roles, good communication, and a shared goal lead to outstanding results. Pupils will learn how these lessons apply not just in sport, but in school groups, projects, and friendships too.
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.
Having a growth mindset means believing you can improve through effort, learning, and perseverance. In this talk, our athletes explain how this way of thinking has helped them deal with setbacks, learn from mistakes, and keep improving, no matter the odds. Pupils will be encouraged to embrace challenges, stay positive, and understand that hard work and resilience lead to progress in sport and in life.
Inspirational Athletes connects schools & communities with elite athletes who inspire, motivate and engage young people through talks, workshops and sports sessions.
Address:
Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 1RD
Phone:
020 7993 2724
Inspirational Speakers has been providing high profile keynote speakers and entertainers for over 25 years.
