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Growing up in working-class Cheltenham, Eddie the Eagle was one of many in a family of plasterers.

He first strapped on skis during a school trip to Italy at age 13 and trained on dry slopes while working as a plasterer to fund his ambitions.

Unable to break into downhill skiing, he pivoted to ski jumping as the UK had no competitors in the sport, providing him with an unexpected opportunity.

Eddie the Eagle | Journey to the Olympics

Eddie’s path to the Winter Olympics was anything but conventional.

Originally a keen downhill skier, he narrowly missed out on selection for the British ski team for the 1984 Winter Games in Sarajevo.

Determined to find another route to Olympic competition, Eddie turned his attention to ski jumping — a discipline in which Great Britain had not fielded a competitor for over 60 years.

With no national training programme and virtually no funding, Eddie’s Olympic dream was built on sheer ingenuity and resourcefulness.

He trained wherever and whenever he could, often sleeping in cars or in disused buildings to save money.

His equipment was far from world-class: his skis were borrowed, his boots were so worn they were held together with tape, and his helmet was a hand-me-down from the US team.

In 1986, he travelled to Lake Placid in New York to learn the basics of ski jumping, often competing against athletes with years of professional coaching.

Despite numerous crashes and the constant financial strain of self-funding his career, Eddie’s enthusiasm never faltered.

He worked part-time job, including plastering,, babysitting, cutting grass and cooking to finance his training trips. 

Qualifying for Calgary required Eddie to compete in international events to meet the minimum standards set by the International Ski Federation (FIS).

Against the odds, he achieved the necessary results in European competitions, often travelling alone, carrying his gear on public transport, and sleeping in cheap hostels.

His sheer persistence paid off: in 1988, Eddie was officially selected to represent Great Britain at the Winter Olympics, making history as the nation’s sole ski jumper.

By the time he arrived in Calgary, Eddie was already a media curiosity — the self-funded, self-trained jumper who had clawed his way onto the world stage.

Eddie the Eagle | Calgary Olympics 1988

At the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards took part in the 70m and 90m ski jump events, despite being widely considered an underdog due to his limited training and unconventional technique.

He was disadvantaged by his weight which at one time was around 9kg heavier than the next heaviest competitor, and he was very far-sighted, wearing thick glasses under his goggles which would mist up at altitude.

Although he finished last in both competitions, his remarkable determination and fearless approach won the hearts of spectators worldwide.

The crowd responded with overwhelming support and cheers, celebrating his perseverance rather than his results.

Eddie’s genuine enthusiasm and willingness to compete against the best athletes in the world created a media sensation, transforming him into an iconic figure synonymous with the Olympic spirit.

His story resonated far beyond sport, symbolising courage, passion, and the belief that anyone can follow their dreams, regardless of the odds.

Eddie the Eagle | In the Media

Following his Olympic moment, Eddie briefly experienced financial instability and bankruptcy but went on to pursue higher education and earned a law degree from De Montfort University in 2003.

Eddie found a niche in media and public life: co-hosting a radio show, performing as a ski instructor, and venturing into music.

His TV appearances include Let’s Dance for Sport Relief, Winter Wipeout (which he won), and Splash! (where he was mentored by Tom Daley and also took the title). More recently, he has appeared on The Masked Dancer and Dancing on Ice.

In 1988, he released his autobiography, entitled Eddie the Eagle: My Story.

Eddie the Eagle, The Movie

Eddie the Eagle ’s story was made into a feature film in 2016, starring Taron Egerton as Eddie, and Hugh Jackman as his coach (albeit a fictional coach), Bronson Peary.

The film was a commercial success, but sadly, Eddie had no involvement in it.

Eddie the Eagle | Motivational Speaker

Following his unique and inspiring journey in the world of ski jumping, Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards has built a successful career as a motivational speaker.

Drawing on his story of perseverance, determination, and overcoming the odds, he captivates audiences across a wide range of sectors, from corporate events to educational institutions.

Eddie’s talks focus on themes such as resilience, chasing dreams despite setbacks, embracing failure as a stepping stone, and the importance of passion and self-belief.

His engaging storytelling style, combined with his authentic humility and humour, makes his presentations both uplifting and memorable. 

He has delivered speaking engagements for the likes of Dyson, Lloyds, Nationwide, and the NHS.

Call +44 1753 439 289 or email  Great Sports Speakers now to book motivational speaker Eddie The Eagle Edwards for your next live event or video.  Contact us.