Resilience & High Performance Speaker
Paralympic Gold Medallist | Executive Coach | Author | TV Presenter
Danny Crates is one of the UK’s most respected resilience and high-performance speakers, a Paralympic gold medallist, world and European champion, bestselling author and experienced TV presenter. He has spent over 25 years performing, presenting and leading under extreme pressure and is now helping organisations do the same.
A Story of Resilience and High Performance
Before his accident in 1994, Danny was already on the path to a professional sporting career, representing Essex and the Eastern Counties in rugby. Losing his right arm in a car accident at 21 could have ended his ambitions but instead, it became the catalyst for a remarkable new chapter.
Within a year, Danny was back playing full-contact rugby. Shortly after, he trained as a scuba diving instructor and worked on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, even performing as a shark display diver — a story that remains a favourite in his keynotes.
But it was on the track where Danny truly made history. Over a glittering 12-year athletics career, he became one of the world’s most decorated Paralympians.
Paralympic Career Highlights:
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Paralympic Gold Medallist — Athens 2004 (800m)
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World Champion — 2006 (800m)
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European Champion — 2001, 2003, 2005
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World Indoor Champion — 2003
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Paralympic Bronze — Sydney 2000 (400m)
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Former World Record Holder — 800m
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Great Britain Flag Bearer — Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony
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His Paralympic success, resilience and consistency under pressure earned him global recognition and a reputation as one of Britain’s most admired athletes.
Beyond Sport: Coaching, Leadership and Performance:
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Danny founded 1404 Performance, a coaching consultancy working with senior leaders, founders and high-performing teams. His experience as a Paralympic champion and global speaker gives him a unique perspective on:
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Leadership under pressure
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Rapid recovery after setbacks
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Sustainable high performance
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Decision-making in uncertainty
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Resilience habits that stick
Danny coaches leaders across sectors, helping them strengthen clarity, confidence and resilience, both personally and professionally.
Broadcasting and Media Career:
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Danny’s sporting achievements led to a significant media career. He became a central part of Channel 4’s BAFTA-winning coverage of the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, and has since presented and reported across major sporting and entertainment broadcasts.
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His media work includes:
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Channel 4 Paralympic Games (London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 & Paris 2024)
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World Para Athletics Championships
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BBC Truth or Scare
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BBC Inside Out
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Morning presenter — Para Athletics London
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BDO World Darts Championships
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World Athletics Championships
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Numerous corporate films and broadcast features
He also published his autobiography, “Danny Boy”, chosen as the Evening Standard’s Sports Book of the Year.
On Stage: A Speaker Who Delivers Impact:
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Danny’s keynote presentations combine:
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Lived experience under extreme pressure
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World-class storytelling
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Practical resilience tools
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High-performance habits
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A warm, engaging style that audiences connect with instantly
He has spoken for global brands across Europe, the Middle East and Asia, consistently delivering sessions that are remembered for years, not days.
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Whether he’s delivering his flagship keynote, Rapid Recovery: Resilience and High Performance Under Pressure, or hosting an event with his trademark ease and professionalism, Danny brings energy, clarity and real-world insight to every stage.
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Human, Relatable, Memorable
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Danny is known for his warmth, humour and openness. He speaks candidly about adversity, performance and the mindset needed to stay composed when life or business throws the unexpected. His story resonates because it’s real, and because he is, too.
Get in Touch
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To enquire about Danny’s availability for speaking, coaching or event hosting, please get in touch.