Giles Long

To reach the pinnacle of international success Giles Long had to overcome cancer.

For twelve years he has represented Great Britain at the highest level in the world of swimming, both as a Butterfly and Individual Medley swimmer and as a relay team member. He won twenty major Championship medals including Paralympic, European, and World Championship Gold medals. His greatest achievement was winning the Paralympic 100 metre Butterfly Gold medal, in October 2000, in a World Record time.

Giles’ treatment for his bone tumour, which included chemotherapy, radiotherapy and numerous operations, lasted two years. He is particularly admired for his triumphs over adversity, successfully overcoming cancer, which threw his entire career into doubt. Competing individually and as part of a team is something that Giles has recognised, and used to great effect, in making his dream come true. Being able to comprehend the requirements of being a champion has given him the ability to have a dream, set goals to get there and to overcome adversity.

Giles was born on 9 th July 1976 in London . He was educated at Chelmer Valley High and Braintree College . He subsequently went on to read Geology at the University of Leeds . Having addressed the Commons Select Committee and written for the Daily Telegraph, Giles divides his time between keynote speaking, writing and working for the Youth Sport Trust.