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Olympic medallist & performance coach

Katharine Merry

Transform athletic performance with Katharine Merry, speaker and Olympic medallist. Katharine works with organisations to deliver elite performance coaching and motivational insights, bringing authority as a world-class athlete and respected sports commentator.

Trusted by Channel 4, Radio 5 Live, Fighting Talk

Katharine Merry, Speaker | Athlete & Trail-Blazing Commentator
Katharine Merry

Katharine Merry

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£2k–5k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Book Katharine

London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£2k–5k

Send an email

loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

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Katharine Merry's biography

At a glance

  • Fastest woman in the world over 400m
  • Bronze medalist at Sydney Olympics
  • Lead TV commentator in Athletics
Katharine Merry is a rare athlete who achieved outstanding success at the junior and senior levels of Athletics. At the young age of 14, she was already recognized as the fastest girl in the world. Twelve years later, she became the fastest woman in the world over the 400m distance. From 18, she was the fastest woman in the UK and entered the 2000 season with one sole objective - to compete in the Sydney Olympics. In front of a crowd of 112,000 spectators, Katharine ran a lifetime best to win the Bronze medal. The following year, she solidified her position as the fastest woman in the world by completing the gruelling one-lap event in an impressive time of 49.59 seconds. She is still ranked as one of the fastest women in the UK for indoor and outdoor sprint events. Since retiring from Athletics, Katharine has become a highly respected lead Commentator and Event host. She is the only female TV lead commentator in Athletics, which has led to her working at numerous Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, and European Championships. She has also served as the lead commentator for Channel 4 at the Paralympics and Paralympic World Cup events. Additionally, Katharine is a regular on Radio 5 Live and confidently holds her own on the hugely competitive "Fighting Talk" program.

Katharine's showreel and videos

Why we recommend booking Katharine

As a speaker, Katharine brings insights from a world-class athlete who has transitioned to a successful commentator. Her unique journey offers powerful lessons in resilience, achieving excellence, and breaking barriers. Her experience ensures your team or business is inspired, motivated, and ready to tackle any challenge.

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Trusted by Channel 4, Radio 5 Live, Fighting Talk

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Katharine Merry for my next event?
Email katharine.merry@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Katharine's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
What is Katharine Merry's speaking style like?
Katharine Merry draws on her career trajectory — from being identified as the fastest girl in the world at age 14 to winning Olympic Bronze in Sydney — to structure talks around the progression from junior to elite senior performance.
What topics does Katharine Merry specialise in?
Katharine Merry speaks on Olympic competition, elite athletic performance, and the transition from professional sport to broadcasting. She won Bronze in the 400m at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and subsequently became the only female lead TV commentator in Athletics, covering Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, and European Championships.
Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

How can I report an issue or make changes to an expert profile?

If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.