sarah - ayton
sailing
Sarah Ayton OBE came from a non sailing background in Middlesex to become double Olympic and World Sailing Champion, winning Olympic gold in Athens 2004 and Beijing in 2008. She was also Rolex World Sailor of the Year in 2015.
Sarah comes from a non sailing background and growing up in Middlesex, sailing wasn’t really the done thing! Sarah’s parents were keen for her to have a hobby and by chance they stumbled across a local sailing club which over time supported Sarah’s love for the sport.
Following retirement from sailing, Sarah became a performance coach and personal trainer helping her clients to be stronger for the things they love to do. She is also a motivational speaker with over a decade of experience, inspiring many corporate teams to be more successful.
Outside of work she is a mother to Thomas and Oscar and she enjoys fitness with the family, getting outdoors and is always looking for a challenge.
Working with the trust
Sarah has been involved in a number of grassroots sailing initiatives which have created opportunities for children to try sailing for the first time.
Sarah is passionate about creating opportunities and supporting individuals to overcome barriers that are preventing them from achieving their goals, hopes and ambitions.
Being able to create an open and honest environment allowing individuals to share the challenges they face and to work with them to create pathway forward is a rewarding role. One of the biggest lesson sport had taught Sarah is to remain logical and solution focused which has really helped her overcome challenging times.
Sarah joined the Trust through the More than Medals Athlete Transition programme and has delivered on On Track to Achieve and Get on Track as well as hrelping to pilot our new Health programme at Alder Hey called Ready, Steady, Go.
Competitive
Record
2015
Extreme Sailing Champions
2008
Beijing Olympic Champion
World Champion
European Champion
2007
World Champion
Olympic Test Event Winners in Beijing
2004
Athens Olympic Champion
