Photo: Sarah Storey / Facebook
The world of sports and entertainment is buzzing as legendary British athlete Dame Sarah Storey embarks on an exciting new chapter. Fresh off her retirement from professional sports in July, the 48-year-old multi-medallist is stepping out of the swimming pool and cycling track to trade them for the sparkling ballroom floor. She has been officially announced as one of the celebrity contestants for the brand new series of the BBC hit show ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
According to BDUS News 24, the pre-recorded launch show aired on Saturday, September 19, revealing the highly anticipated pairings between the celebrities and professional dancers. Sarah joins a star-studded lineup of 15 contestants competing for the coveted Glitterball trophy this season. The fresh installment of the dance contest also features a brand new hosting lineup, with Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe taking over presenting duties.
Photo: Sarah Storey / Facebook
Journey of British Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey
Born with a congenital condition where her left hand did not fully develop due to being entangled in the umbilical cord, Sarah discovered her passion for athletics at a very young age. She began her journey by joining her local swimming club in Manchester at just 10 years old, eventually launching her Paralympic career in the pool at age 14. After competing successfully across four Paralympic Games as a swimmer, she made a historic transition to cycling.
Over an illustrious career spanning nine Games, she accumulated a staggering 30 Paralympic medals, including 19 gold medals, cementing her status as the most successful British Paralympian of all time. Away from her rigorous athletic training, Sarah married tandem pilot and coach Barney Storey in 2007, and they welcomed their daughter Louisa in June 2013.
Taking on a Fresh Challenge in the Ballroom
Transitioning from elite athletics to the glitz and glamour of television is no small feat, but Sarah is thrilled to embrace the opportunity. Sharing her enthusiasm for joining the competition, she noted how inspired she is by her daughter Louisa, who is a talented dancer herself. Learning from professional dancers offers her a unique window into her daughter’s world, making the experience deeply personal and motivating.
As the competition heats up, fans and followers of BDUS News 24 will be keeping a close eye on how this powerhouse champion adapts to waltzes, cha-chas, and quicksteps. Her determination and resilient spirit have broken countless barriers in sports, and the audience is eager to see her conquer the ballroom floor next.
