Mark is one of the UK’s most successful competitive swimmers. By the age of fifteen, he was the fastest swimmer in the country. Over a remarkable 23-year career, Mark won 51 international medals, competed in five Olympic Games, held World, European, and Commonwealth titles, and set eight world records.
In 2008, Mark experienced one of his proudest moments when he served as the flag bearer for the UK at the Opening Ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games, an honour bestowed on only the most distinguished athletes.
Since retiring from competitive swimming, Mark has built a successful career as a commentator, TV personality, public speaker, philanthropist, and brand ambassador. His extensive professional and personal experiences have provided him with a unique insight into the importance of a balanced, healthy lifestyle. He passionately encourages and educates others to make healthier, mindful life choices through his social media, fundraising efforts, and public speaking engagements.
Mark’s participation in Strictly Come Dancing led to the creation of FitStepsTM, a dance/fitness programme he launched with dance professionals Natalie Lowe and Ian Waite. Additionally, he inspires the next generation of competitive swimmers through the Mark Foster Swimming Academy.
A dedicated philanthropist, Mark is a patron of the Anaphylaxis Campaign and Regain, supporting tetraplegic athletes. He leverages his public profile to raise awareness for causes such as Wellchild, Sports Aid, Movember, The Prostate Cancer Charity, and BT Swimathon. Since publicly coming out in 2017, Mark has also been a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, promoting compassion, equality, and inclusion.
Known for his excellent sense of humour and love for challenges, Mark frequently appears as a pundit, panellist, or celebrity contestant on television. His expertise and experience make him a popular commentator for major sporting events like the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games. He is a regular panellist on BBC’s A Question of Sport and has appeared on celebrity editions of Who Wants to Be A Millionaire, MasterChef, Mastermind, and Pointless. He competed on Strictly Come Dancing in 2008 with partner Hayley Holt.
Mark is a professional, knowledgeable, engaging, and compassionate individual who strives to use his experience and public profile to inspire, educate, and entertain.
