The world’s strongest brothers, Tom and Luke Stoltman, have given their backing to Special Olympics Great Britain (GB) and its mission to use the power of sport to transform the lives of children and adults with an intellectual (learning) disability.
As Strength Ambassadors, Tom — a three-time winner of World’s Strongest Man — and Luke — a two-time winner of Europe’s Strongest Man — will champion Special Olympics GB’s work as the nation’s largest provider of year-round sports training and competition for people with an intellectual disability.
The role holds personal meaning for the Stoltman Brothers. Tom was diagnosed with autism at the age of five, and his journey into strength training alongside Luke helped him grow in confidence and go on to become one of the most decorated strongman athletes in history.
“Special Olympics GB represents the confidence and belief that sport gave me when I needed it most,” said Tom Stoltman.
Growing up with autism, having people who supported me made all the difference. I’m proud to be a Strength Ambassador and to help more athletes feel empowered through sport.
Luke Stoltman said: “It’s an honour to support an organisation that champions inclusion and helps people realise just how talented they truly are. We’re excited to bring our passion to this role and help amplify their incredible achievements.”
To mark the start of their ambassador roles, Tom and Luke welcomed Special Olympics GB athletes Bleddyn Gibbs and Geraldine Fitzsimons to their newly opened Stoltman Strength Centre in their hometown of Invergordon in the Scottish Highlands.
Here, Bleddyn and Geraldine, who won multiple powerlifting gold medals representing Team Special Olympics GB at the Special Olympics World Summer Games Berlin 2023, enjoyed a mixed powerlifting and strongman training session with the world’s strongest brothers.
Laura Baxter MBE, Chief Executive of Special Olympics GB, said: “Welcoming Tom and Luke as ambassadors is a powerful moment for Special Olympics GB. They are not only world-class athletes but world-class human beings who share our belief that sport can break down barriers, shift attitudes, and transform lives. Their influence and authenticity will mean the world to our athletes. We are proud to have them join the Special Olympics GB family, and together we will create sporting moments that inspire the nation.”
Across England, Scotland and Wales, Special Olympics GB supports a grassroots network of sports clubs offering opportunities in 27 sports for people with an intellectual disability. These clubs are powered by nearly 6,000 volunteers, who give their time to deliver life-changing training and competition opportunities.