Sam Quek is one of Britain’s most inspiring modern figures — an Olympic champion, sports presenter, and television personality whose story blends resilience, intelligence, and charm. From representing Great Britain in field hockey to lighting up British television screens, Sam Quek’s evolution from athlete to broadcaster reflects her drive to excel in every field she touches. Today, she stands as a role model for aspiring athletes and women breaking boundaries in sports and media alike.
Early Life and Background
Born on 18 October 1988 in Liverpool, England, Samantha Ann Quek — known to millions simply as Sam Quek — grew up on the Wirral Peninsula. Her family background reflects a rich mix of cultures; her father, Albert Quek, is of Singaporean-Chinese descent, while her mother, Marilyn Quek, is English. This diverse heritage gave Sam a unique perspective on life and identity, shaping her open-minded approach to teamwork and leadership.
From a young age, Sam was drawn to sports. At Birkenhead High School and later at Calday Grange Grammar School, she showed natural athleticism. However, it was hockey that truly captured her heart. Her talent and determination were evident early on, earning her selection for local and national teams before she even left her teenage years.
The Road to Olympic Glory
Sam Quek’s hockey journey officially began when she represented England and Great Britain as a defender. Wearing the number 13 — a number many consider unlucky — Quek embraced it as her personal emblem of strength. Her grit, tactical sharpness, and leadership quickly made her a core member of the national team.
Her defining moment came at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she played a crucial role in helping Great Britain’s women’s hockey team capture the gold medal. The victory wasn’t just a triumph for the team; it was a landmark for British sport. Quek’s defensive prowess and cool composure under pressure won her admiration from fans and critics alike.
Before Rio, she had already secured a silver medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, and throughout her international career, she earned more than 125 caps representing both England and Great Britain.
For her contributions to sport, Sam Quek was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the 2017 New Year Honours.
Transition from Athlete to Television Star
After the Rio Olympics, Sam Quek gracefully transitioned from elite athlete to household name. Her natural charisma and quick wit made her a perfect fit for television. Unlike many former athletes, she didn’t limit herself to sports commentary — she embraced mainstream entertainment.
Her television debut came in I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! (2016), where she finished in fourth place. Her authenticity and humor in the jungle won over millions of viewers, showcasing her personality beyond the hockey field. This appearance opened the doors to a new chapter in her career.
Since then, Quek has become one of Britain’s most versatile presenters. She has hosted and appeared in numerous TV shows with Sam Quek, including:
- A Question of Sport (BBC) – Sam became the first female team captain in the show’s long history in 2021, breaking barriers and inspiring women in broadcasting.
- Celebrity MasterChef (2020) – where her competitive spirit shone once again as she cooked her way to the later rounds.
- BBC’s Morning Live – as a co-presenter, she discusses lifestyle, wellness, and current affairs.
- Eurovision 2023 Opening Ceremony (Liverpool) – co-hosted by Sam, showing her versatility on an international stage.
- Regular appearances covering sports events such as the Women’s World Cup, Olympics, and Premier League football on BBC and ITV.
Her natural confidence, warmth, and insight make her one of the most respected and loved female presenters in the UK today.
Personal Life – Love and Family
Behind her public success is a grounded personal life. Sam Quek’s spouse is Tom Mairs, a Liverpool-based property entrepreneur best known for appearing on the TV show The Secret Millionaire. The couple married in 2018 in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by close family and friends.
Together, they have built a warm family life. They welcomed their daughter, Molly Doris Mairs, in March 2021, followed by their son, Isaac Gregory (“Zac”) Mairs, in March 2022. Sam often speaks lovingly about the balance between career and motherhood, highlighting the challenges and joys of raising children while pursuing professional ambitions.
Despite her busy media schedule, she remains family-oriented and deeply proud of her roots in Liverpool. Her social media presence shows glimpses of family life, humor, and authenticity — qualities that have made her relatable to her fans.
Sam Quek’s Net Worth and Success
As of 2025, Sam Quek’s net worth is estimated to be around £3–4 million. This impressive figure comes from her multifaceted career — combining earnings from her time as a professional athlete, her numerous television appearances, endorsement deals, and presenting roles.
Beyond income, Quek’s true success lies in her ability to reinvent herself. She moved from sports to mainstream entertainment seamlessly, something few athletes achieve. She’s worked with top British networks like BBC, ITV, and Channel 4, often fronting sports coverage and lifestyle programs. Her professional journey demonstrates that adaptability, confidence, and authenticity can open doors across industries.
Advocate for Women in Sport
Beyond fame and fortune, Sam Quek has used her platform to advocate for greater inclusion and respect for women in sport. She openly discusses issues such as sexism in sports coverage and the underrepresentation of female athletes in the media.
Her presence as the first female captain on A Question of Sport was more than symbolic — it was a step toward normalizing women in leading sports commentary roles. Quek has also campaigned for young girls to stay active in sport, partnering with organizations that promote youth participation and equality.
Her voice carries weight not just because of her Olympic background, but because she speaks from experience — understanding the pressures, stereotypes, and obstacles female athletes face daily.
Personality and Public Image
Known for her humor, determination, and down-to-earth nature, Sam Quek remains one of the most relatable public figures in the UK. She often jokes about her competitiveness, which is as fierce in the kitchen as it was on the hockey field.
Her multi-ethnic heritage and personal story resonate with a diverse audience, while her confidence and eloquence make her a regular favorite on talk shows and live events. Whether discussing football on BBC Sport or cooking on MasterChef, Quek brings an infectious energy that draws viewers in.
Age and Continuing Growth
At 36 years old (as of 2025), Sam Quek continues to expand her influence across sports, media, and philanthropy. She has proven that an athlete’s life doesn’t end at retirement; it evolves. Her journey from Olympic champion to broadcaster and mother symbolizes reinvention and resilience.
She frequently mentions that her sporting mindset — teamwork, preparation, and perseverance — still guides her in television and life.
Legacy and Inspiration
Sam Quek’s story is a testament to what’s possible when talent meets hard work. She has inspired countless young women to follow their dreams, regardless of traditional boundaries. Her legacy extends beyond the hockey pitch — she has become a symbol of empowerment, diversity, and authenticity.
Her balance of career, family, and advocacy embodies the modern British role model — someone who embraces both ambition and humility.
At Brieflyx Celebrity, we celebrate individuals like Sam Quek who remind us that success is not defined by one achievement but by continuous growth, courage, and the ability to adapt. Whether on the Olympic stage or in front of a camera, Sam Quek continues to inspire a generation that believes in breaking barriers and building legacies.
Conclusion
From Liverpool to Rio, from the hockey field to BBC studios, Sam Quek’s journey is one of persistence, transformation, and authenticity. Her achievements as an Olympic gold medalist, her engaging television career, and her advocacy for women in sport make her one of Britain’s most respected public figures.
As she continues to balance life as a mother, presenter, and advocate, Sam Quek stands as proof that success can take many forms — and that passion, when combined with determination, can turn any dream into reality.
