Who is Paralympic swimming star Ellie Simmonds?

The five-time Paralympic gold medallist Ellie Simmonds, who was born with achondroplasia dwarfism, is best known for her exploits in the pool.

Simmonds first shot to prominence at the Beijing Games in 2008, where she won two gold medals. She took up swimming at the age of seven, and first represented Great Britain at the 2004 Summer Paralympics when she was 13.

She won two gold medals at the 2008 Summer Paralympics, and followed this up with three golds and a silver at the 2012 Summer Paralympics. Simmonds retired from swimming in 2021 and has since gone on to become a broadcaster for BBC Sport.

Now, Ellie is looking to conquer a new challenge as she prepares to take to the dancefloor on Strictly.

Simmonds has said that she is “excited and terrified” about taking part in the BBC show. “I have always been a big fan of Strictly so when I was approached to take part this year, I just couldn’t say no,” she said.

Ellie will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of other Paralympic athletes who have found success on the show, including Jonnie Peacock and Ellie Downie.

In 2012, Ellie defended her titles in the 100m and 400m freestyle events, again setting new world records. She also won a bronze medal in the 200m individual medley. She has won a total of six gold medals at the Paralympic Games, five world records, and numerous other titles. She is one of Britain’s most successful Paralympic athletes.

Simmonds was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2009 New Year Honours. In October 2010, she was awarded the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year. In December 2012, she was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year with a record number of public votes (more than any other contestant in the history of the award). Ellie was also appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in the 2017 New Year Honours.

The swimmer is an inspiration to young people with disabilities all over the world. She has shown that anything is possible if you set your mind to it and work hard. Ellie is a true role model for anyone, regardless of their ability.

The 27-year-old will join an all-star cast on this year’s Strictly, which is due to start later this month. She will be paired with one of the show’s professional dancers, who will be revealed when the series starts.