Born: 1968
Biography:
Shirley Ann Robertson, OBE DL, born on 15 July 1968, is a renowned British sailor and Olympic gold medalist. She has etched her name in the annals of history by becoming the first British woman to win an Olympic gold medal at consecutive games, capturing glory in Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004.
Robertson’s journey to becoming an Olympic champion began in the Europe class at the 2000 Summer Olympics, where she secured her first Olympic gold medal. Her unparalleled determination and skills propelled her forward, laying the foundation for her future successes. Four years later, at the 2004 Summer Olympics, Robertson, along with her crew in the Yngling class, achieved an extraordinary feat by securing the gold medal with one race to spare. Her remarkable achievements not only demonstrated her sailing prowess but also highlighted her ability to thrive under immense pressure.
Robertson’s sailing prowess did not go unnoticed, as she was honored as the female World Sailor of the Year by the International Sailing Federation in 2000. Her exceptional contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark on the sailing world. In recognition of her outstanding achievements, Robertson was appointed an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in 2000 and received additional recognition when she was appointed an OBE (Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in 2005.
Beyond her Olympic triumphs, Robertson’s influence extends to her contributions in broadcasting. In January 2006, she assumed the role of the regular presenter of Mainsail, a CNN monthly program devoted to the sailing world. Her passion for the sport and profound understanding of its intricacies made her a natural choice for this role. Additionally, Robertson showcased her expertise as a commentator for the BBC’s sailing coverage at the 2008 Summer Olympics and provided insightful commentary on the sailing events during the 2012 Olympic Games in Weymouth for the BBC.
Despite her numerous accomplishments, Robertson remains grounded and devoted to her personal life. Born in Dundee, she spent her formative years in Menstrie in central Scotland. In June 2006, she happily exchanged vows with Jamie Boag, embarking on a journey of love and companionship. Currently, Robertson and her husband reside in Cowes on the Isle of Wight, where they have built a life together. The couple is blessed with the joys of parenthood, raising twins named Annabel and Killian.
Shirley Robertson’s exceptional achievements as a sailor, her unwavering determination, and her impact on the sailing world have made her an enduring figure in women’s history. Her groundbreaking successes showcased the limitless possibilities for women in sports, inspiring future generations of aspiring athletes to reach for their dreams and shatter barriers.
Awards:
– MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) – 2000
– OBE (Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) – 2005