In this episode we talk to double Paralympic gold medalist and nine-time world champion Emma Wiggs MBE.

Since a mystery virus impaired the mobility in her legs, Emma has fought her way to the top, dedicating herself to not just one, but two sports. 

She first competed in sitting volleyball before choosing to switch to the high-speed sport of paracanoe and still continues to compete and dominate on the world stage today. 

Emma won gold at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio and gold and silver at the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo, this is in addition to her nine World Championship golds that she’s achieved since 2013.

Her success in Tokyo was also record-breaking as she became the most decorated female paracanoeist at a Paralympic Games of all time. She was also the only female paddler to medal in both the Kayak and Va’a races at the same Games.

Now a trailblazer for the sport in the UK and the paracanoe community around the world, Emma’s achievements were recognised in the 2017 Queen’s New Year Honours list, where she was awarded an MBE for her services to canoeing. 

Emma has since joined forces with fellow elite athletes and the Women’s Sports Trust to challenge the lack of diversity in sports bodies at senior and boardroom levels as part of the ‘Unlocked’ initiative.

We really hope you enjoy this episode!