Tim Baillie MBE is an Olympic champion and former slalom canoeist who embodies resilience, patience, and the power of perseverance.
His inspiring journey to gold at the London 2012 Games is a brilliant example of how determination and teamwork can lead to extraordinary success.
Born in Aberdeen, Tim discovered canoeing through his parents and quickly took to the sport. By the age of 11, he was already part of the Scottish Junior training squad, competing in the K1 category. At 18, Tim moved to Nottingham – officially to study Mechanical Engineering, but really to train at the National Water Sports Centre.
Initially racing solo, Tim switched to the double canoe (C2) event at 23, partnering with Etienne Stott. The pair set their sights on the 2008 Beijing Olympics, but despite being physically and technically prepared, they missed out on selection – struggling to perform under pressure at the crucial moment.
That disappointment fuelled their determination, and with the dream of a home Games on the horizon, they regrouped and committed to four more years of intense training. Their efforts were rewarded when they struck gold at London 2012, a defining moment in their careers and British canoeing history.
Now a sought-after speaker and youth mentor, Tim shares his story with honesty and humour, focusing on overcoming setbacks, performing under pressure, and what it really takes to stay committed to a long-term goal. His talks encourage young people to embrace challenges and keep going – even when things don’t go to plan.
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.
The Olympics represents the pinnacle of sport, and our athletes give a behind-the-scenes insight into what it is really like to compete or aim to compete on the world’s biggest stage. They share stories of preparation, pressure, teamwork, and pride, inspiring pupils with lessons about ambition, dedication, and chasing dreams, whatever they may be.
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.
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.
Tim was a real inspiration to the young people that attended the games. He stayed for the full day and was involved throughout including at the opening ceremony, medal presentations and in direction interaction with teams.
Tim Baillie inspired young athletes who are on their first steps within competitive sport with his story of how he became an Olympic champion in 2012.
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.
