Claire Danson

Motivational Speaker & Professional Cyclist

Speaker fees:

In-person: £1k-£3k
Virtual: £1k-£3k

Topics:

Adversity & Resilience
2
Growth Mindset
2
Change & Uncertainty
2
Teamwork

Claire Danson is an exceptional motivational speaker whose extraordinary story captivates audiences and inspires transformative change.

Her journey exemplifies unparalleled mental and physical resilience, showcasing how the human spirit can triumph in the face of unimaginable adversity.

From a young age, Claire displayed remarkable determination and strength. As a teenager, she overcame a life-threatening battle with anorexia, rebuilding her health and channelling her energy into sport. She began long-distance running at 17 before discovering her passion for cycling and swimming, which led her to the world of triathlons. A highly successful GB age-group triathlete, Claire’s accomplishments included becoming the European Age Group Champion in 2019, winning the London Triathlon, and claiming victory at the Staffordshire Ironman 70.3. With her sights set on earning a long-distance professional racing licence, Claire was on track to achieve her ultimate dream.

However, in August 2019, Claire’s life took a devastating turn. During a routine training ride, she collided with a tractor, sustaining catastrophic injuries. These included multiple fractures to her neck, spine, ribs, and shoulders, punctured lungs, and a complete severing of her spinal cord, leaving her paralyzed from the chest down. Despite the severity of her injuries, Claire’s response was extraordinary. Just two days after the accident, while still on a ventilator and unable to move, she spelled out the word “Para-athlete” to her family, signalling her unwavering determination to pursue a new path in sport.

Claire’s rehabilitation journey has been nothing short of groundbreaking. At the Salisbury Spinal Unit, she defied expectations, achieving milestones that even medical professionals deemed impossible. Her resilience and positivity saw her transition from elite triathlete to inspiring para-athlete, setting new goals and conquering challenges with unrelenting determination.

Since her injury, Claire has accomplished incredible feats. She has completed multiple triathlon challenges, cycled from London to Paris, gone sit-skiing in Colorado, and represented Great Britain as part of the national hand cycling team. Competing at World Cups and World Championships, Claire continues to push boundaries, inspiring others with her dedication and drive. Her ultimate ambition is to compete in the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.

In her motivational talks, Claire draws from her remarkable experiences to explore themes such as overcoming adversity, cultivating resilience, and maintaining a positive mindset. She emphasizes the importance of reframing challenges as opportunities, setting ambitious goals, and celebrating incremental victories along the way. Her candid and heartfelt delivery resonates deeply with audiences, inspiring them to believe that no challenge is insurmountable.

More than just a story of perseverance, Claire’s journey is a call to action. She is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, the power of teamwork, and the value of supportive communities. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, anything is possible—a message that resonates in both personal and professional contexts.

Through her speaking engagements, Claire inspires teams, organizations, and individuals to embrace resilience, reframe their perspectives, and unlock their true potential. Whether navigating change, striving for ambitious goals, or seeking fresh motivation, Claire’s story empowers audiences to transform challenges into triumphs and discover the limitless possibilities within themselves.

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Featured topics include

  • How to adapt and thrive despite life-changing challenges.
  • Personal lessons from overcoming both mental and physical setbacks.
  • Turning setbacks into opportunities for growth.
  • Strategies to maintain focus and determination when faced with challenges.
  • The importance of optimism and reframing negative situations.
  • Practical techniques for cultivating positivity in tough times.
  • Breaking down big, seemingly unachievable goals into manageable steps.
  • Celebrating small wins to build momentum toward success.
  • Shifting perspectives to see opportunities within obstacles.
  • Real-life examples of how Claire applied this mindset after her accident.
  • Building a support network and fostering collaboration.
  • How teamwork and shared purpose lead to greater success.
  • How to adapt to unforeseen circumstances with courage and flexibility.
  • Finding direction and purpose during times of transition.
  • Lessons from Claire’s journey as a triathlete and para-athlete.
  • The intersection of sport, determination, and personal transformation.

What people say

I just wanted to say that was incredible. The reaction from everyone was overwhelming and you and your story were truly inspiring. Thank you for taking the time to join us.

Peter Charles, Managing Director of Red Bull UK

Claire recently took time out to explain her story to my 100 top managers. Through that story she demonstrated her resilience and determination to succeed against the greatest adversity. She inspired every single one of us to ‘just start’ and of course ‘keep going’ even through the toughest of times. She sat at floor level in her chair and just talked to over 100 people sitting around her. Standing to the side I thought she looked the most vulnerable person in the room and yet she was easily the strongest. Tears were shed by many (not her) and she has now inspired so many of us to achieve more in our business and personal lives. I cannot recommend her highly enough.

Alastair, Isbister, CEO at Great Bear Distribution

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