Geoff Holt MBE

Geoff Holt is a record-setting yachtsman & inspirational disability business and sports ambassador. A popular winner of the revered Yachtsman of the Year award, Geoff is a memorable, powerful and entertaining speaker with vital messages to share aboutability, achieving difficult goals against the odds, inspiring leadership, effective teamwork and building a successful value-centred business.

In November 2015, Geoff’s entrepreneurial skill as CEO of Wetwheels, a Community Interest Company (CIC) operating fully accessible boats, was recognized in winning the prestigious Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs in the UK. Geoff entered the history books in 2007 when he sailed solo around Great Britain. Paralysed from the neck down in an accident at the age of 18, Geoff’s achievement was both groundbreaking and courageous. Geoff lives by the mantra of ‘no excuses’ and continues to challenge what seems impossible. Indeed, another world-record was to follow. In 2010, Geoff became the first quadriplegic to sail unassisted across the Atlantic. The 3,000-mile journey took four weeks to complete sailing a purpose-built 60ft catamaran ‘Impossible Dream’.

Recognition of Geoff’s achievements came swiftly. He was voted BBC South SportsPersonality of the Year (2007); short-listed for Yachtsman of the Year (2008); received a British Airways Great Briton Award and the RYA Francis Elkin Award(2009). In June 2010, Geoff was awarded an MBE for services to disabled sailing and then in early 2011, Geoff received the coveted YJA Pantaenius Yachtsman of the Year that Geoff considers the ‘Knighthood of Yachting.’ As an entrepreneur committed to ensuring business gives back to the community, Geoff was proud to win the Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs in the UK.

Geoff has a very inspirational view of life and the opportunities it holds. His positive outlook is infectious and it comes across strongly in every speaking engagement. Although sailing is a key thread in Geoff’s life, Geoff’s story is not about sailing. His life demonstrates the power of the human spirit and it captivates audiences every time he tells it. It is a journey through the life of an amazing man told with passion and humour. He engages audiences by making them feel involved in every step of that journey and he demonstrates, with great sensitivity, our ability to deal with challenges when they present themselves in life. Above all, it is a“feel good” story leaving audiences upbeat and inspired to do something positive within their own lives.