Helen Glover is far more than just the wife of renowned British naturalist and TV personality Steve Backshall—she is one of the most accomplished British rowers in Olympic history. At 38 years old, as of March 2025, Helen has built an extraordinary career in athletics, balanced a flourishing family life, and become a role model for many around the world. Her journey from a sporty child in Cornwall to a two-time Olympic gold medalist and dedicated mother is nothing short of inspiring.
A Childhood Built on Athletics
Born on June 17, 1986, in Truro, Cornwall, Helen Elizabeth Glover grew up in nearby Penzance. One of five children in a sporty household, Helen was raised in an environment that fostered physical activity and competitiveness. Her father, Jimmy Glover, a school teacher, was himself a former athlete who competed at Junior Wimbledon and captained multiple sports teams. Helen’s early exposure to various sports laid a strong foundation for her future.
She began her education at Heamoor Community Primary School and then moved on to Humphry Davy School in Penzance. Recognizing her potential, Helen earned a sports scholarship to Millfield School in Somerset—a hub for elite young athletes. While there, she excelled in cross-country running and field hockey. She later pursued a degree in Sport and Exercise Science from the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, and completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Education at University College Plymouth St Mark & St John, intending to become a PE teacher.
A Late Start to Rowing — But Rapid Success
Despite her athletic background, rowing was not on Helen’s radar until 2008. At the age of 22, she was selected for the GB Rowing Team’s “Start” program, which identifies and trains athletes with Olympic potential. Her progress was nothing short of remarkable.
Within four years, she was standing on the top podium at the London 2012 Olympic Games, having won gold in the women’s coxless pair with teammate Heather Stanning. It was the first-ever Olympic gold for British women’s rowing—a historic achievement. The pair repeated their success at the 2016 Rio Olympics, cementing Helen’s status as one of Britain’s elite athletes.
Alongside her Olympic success, Helen accumulated World Championship and European Championship titles, consistently performing at the highest level in global competition.
A Love Story with Steve Backshall
Helen met her future husband, adventurer and wildlife presenter Steve Backshall, in 2014 during a Sport Relief charity event. Their mutual passion for fitness and the outdoors quickly brought them together. The couple got engaged in 2015 and married in September 2016 in a stunning cliffside ceremony in West Cornwall, surrounded by family and close friends.
Together, they’ve built a life along the River Thames in Berkshire. Their home reflects their shared love of nature and family—complete with a children’s play area and even Helen’s outdoor rowing training setup. The couple is often seen kayaking together and supporting one another’s professional and personal endeavors.
Family Life and Personal Triumphs
Helen and Steve Backshall are now proud parents of three children. Their eldest son, Logan, was born in July 2018. In January 2020, the couple welcomed twins—Kit, a boy, and Willow, a girl. While the family’s story is filled with joy, it hasn’t been without heartache. During her first pregnancy, Helen faced the tragic loss of one of her expected twins, an experience she and Steve have bravely spoken about in public to help others going through similar pain.
Despite the challenges of motherhood, Helen returned to competitive rowing less than a year after giving birth to the twins. Her comeback was nothing short of remarkable, proving her strength not just as an athlete, but as a woman determined to balance her ambitions with family life.
Comeback and Continued Influence
In 2021, Helen teamed up with Polly Swann and won gold at the European Rowing Championships. She later competed in the postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games (held in 2021 due to the pandemic), finishing fourth in the coxless pair. Though narrowly missing a medal, her return to the world stage was widely applauded.
Helen remains active in the rowing community and frequently participates in public speaking events, podcasts, and charitable endeavors. Alongside her husband, she continues to support conservation, youth development, and health-focused organizations.
Helen Glover’s Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Helen Glover’s estimated net worth ranges between $1.5 million and $1.7 million. This wealth stems from her athletic career, endorsement deals, speaking engagements, and media appearances. Her husband Steve Backshall holds an estimated net worth of around $2 million, built from his extensive work in television, writing, and wildlife conservation. Together, they form one of Britain’s most dynamic and respected public couples.
Final Thoughts
Helen Glover’s story is one of grit, heart, and balance. From dominating international rowing competitions to raising three children and championing important causes, she exemplifies the modern athlete-mother. Her legacy goes beyond gold medals—it’s in her ability to inspire others, redefine limits, and pursue excellence in all aspects of life.
Whether on the water or at home with her family, Helen Glover continues to prove that with passion and resilience, anything is possible.
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