“A richer life to me means not being scared of what’s to come and not having regrets about what has passed.”
A highly decorated six-time Paralympic medal winner, inspirational speaker and philanthropist.
Stephen describes himself as an athlete who throws backward, but who is always thinking forward. Born with cerebral palsy, Stephen has represented Great Britain in seated throw events (particularly the F52 Club Throw) for over 24 years.
Stephen was first introduced to the Club Throw at ten years old at his weekly school sports club, and by the age of just 16, he had won gold at the Atlanta Paralympics. In total, Stephen has competed in six Paralympic Games, seven World Championships and six European Championships – so far winning 26 international medals. He has won three Paralympic titles in a row and held the F32 Club Throw world record from 1997-2008. He is still competing and aiming for the postponed Tokyo Paralympics next year.
Awarded an MBE in New Year’s honours list in 2016, Stephen has given a lot back to the community through his inspirational talks. An avid visitor to schools, athletics clubs and businesses in his home area of the north east of England, the Newcastle United fan is keen to inspire people to take up sport and get active. In 2013, Stephen founded SMILE Through Sport, a not for profit organisation which combines the services of inspirational speaking, training courses and disability sport development.
Away from the sport, Stephen holds a degree in Business Information Systems and worked as a database and web developer for 14 years.