Keynote SpeakersMaisie Summers-Newton MBE is a British Paralympic swimmer who competes in the SB6, SM6, and S6 disability categories.
Maisie has emerged as one of the most talented para-swimmers in the world.
Early Life and Background:
Maisie Summers-Newton started swimming at a young age, but it wasn’t until she watched her idol, Ellie Simmonds, at the 2012 London Paralympic Games that she realised her potential in competitive swimming.
Inspired by Simmonds’ achievements, Maisie began training with the Northampton Swimming Club, refining her technique and working hard to reach the top levels of para-swimming.
Swimming Career:
Breakthrough in 2018
Maisie’s first significant breakthrough came in 2018 when she entered the European Para Swimming Championships in Dublin.
She won three gold medals at just 16 years old, solidifying her place as a rising star. She took gold in the 200m individual medley SM6, beating her idol Ellie Simmonds, gold in the 100m breaststroke SB6 and gold in the 4x100m medley relay. Her performance was particularly notable as she set a new world record in the 200m individual medley.
2019 World Para Swimming Championships
The 2019 World Para Swimming Championships in London was another significant milestone for Summers-Newton. Competing on home soil, she dominated the pool, securing two gold medals in the 200m individual medley SM6 and the 100m breaststroke SB6. These victories demonstrated her consistency and showcased her ability to perform under pressure on the world stage.
Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games (held in 2021)
The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games were delayed until 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She competed in two main events:
- 200m Individual Medley SM6 – Maisie won gold, setting a new Paralympic record and defeating a highly competitive field, including experienced Paralympic champions.
- 100m Breaststroke SB6 – She claimed her second gold medal of the Games, showcasing her versatility as a swimmer.
Winning two gold medals in Tokyo placed her firmly among the elite Paralympians worldwide.
2022 Commonwealth Games
The 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham saw Summers-Newton make history again. Competing in the 100m breaststroke SB6, she took home the gold medal. This marked a significant moment as this was the first time para-swimming events were included in the Commonwealth Games program on equal terms with able-bodied events. This victory underscored her role in the continued growth and visibility of para-sports.
Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
Maisie achieved outstanding success in Paris, defending her title in the SM6 200m Individual Medley and securing her third Paralympic gold. In a commanding performance, she overcame nerves and dominated the race.
This victory further solidified her position as a top para-swimmer.
Maisie Summers-Newton – Inspirational Speaker:
Maisie has spoken about the importance of representation in para-sports, emphasising how watching Simmonds in 2012 inspired her to believe that Paralympic success was possible for her, too.
Outside of swimming, Maisie has actively promoted awareness of disability sports. She often shares her experiences and highlights the importance of determination and self-belief. As a public figure, she has become a role model for young athletes with disabilities, showing them what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance.
Away from swimming, Maisie is a qualified primary school teacher driven to improve the lives of young children.
Maisie Summers-Newton’s journey from a young girl inspired by the London 2012 Paralympics to becoming a multi-time Paralympic champion is a testament to her determination, skill, and passion. Her achievements have elevated her status in para-sports and helped raise the profile of Paralympic swimming internationally.
With her combination of talent, resilience, and advocacy, Maisie Summers-Newton is undoubtedly one of the most influential para-athletes of her generation.
As a Paralympian Speaker, Maisie is available for Q&A sessions and inspirational fireside chats.
