IELTS Speaking Part 2

Describe a successful sportsperson you admire

Describe a successful sportsperson you admire

You should say:

One minute to prepare, then speak for one to two minutes.

How to plan it in one minute

  1. Choose someone whose personal values you can describe to add depth beyond just their sporting results.
  2. Jot down one specific achievement to anchor your answer and make the person seem real.
  3. Use the bullet points as a roadmap to ensure you cover all requirements within the time.

Band 8 model answer

I would like to talk about Eliud Kipchoge, the legendary Kenyan long-distance runner who has completely redefined the boundaries of human endurance in marathon running. He is a household name in the world of athletics, having dominated the sport for over a decade with a level of consistency that is truly staggering. His list of achievements is quite frankly mind-boggling; he is a two-time Olympic gold medallist and the first human to ever break the two-hour barrier in a marathon during the INEOS 1:59 Challenge in Vienna. That particular feat, although not an official world record due to the pacing assistance he received, was a monumental milestone that felt like witnessing a man landing on the moon for the first time.

What I find most admirable about Kipchoge isn’t just his physical prowess or his relentless training regime, but his philosophy on life. Despite his global fame and the wealth he has generated, he remains incredibly grounded and humble. He famously lives in a modest training camp in Kaptagat, where he shares chores like cleaning toilets and fetching water with younger, less experienced athletes. This displays a character of profound integrity and discipline. He frequently speaks about the importance of 'no human is limited', a mantra that encourages everyone to push past their perceived boundaries. His ability to maintain such intense focus while remaining deeply connected to his roots is a quality I find deeply inspiring. He isn't just an athlete to me; he is a beacon of perseverance who teaches us that success is a product of patience, humility, and an unyielding belief in one’s own potential.

268 words, about two minutes at a natural pace. Details are invented; use your own.

Vocabulary from the answer

redefined the boundaries
changed the limits of what is possible
mind-boggling
something so surprising it is hard to believe
monumental milestone
a very important event in a person's life
physical prowess
great skill or strength in physical activities
relentless
continuing in a determined way without stopping
grounded
sensible and having a good attitude about life
profound
showing great knowledge or very deep feelings
unyielding
not giving up or changing one's opinion

Part 3 questions that follow this card

Answer each in three to five sentences: position, reason, example, limit. See the Part 3 guide.

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Frequently asked questions

How should I start the cue card "Describe a successful sportsperson you admire"?

Choose someone whose personal values you can describe to add depth beyond just their sporting results.

How long should my answer be?

Speak for the full two minutes, about 220 to 280 words at a natural pace. The examiner will stop you at two minutes, which is a good sign, not a problem.

Can I use this model answer in the exam?

Use its structure and vocabulary, not its sentences. Examiners recognise memorised answers and mark fluency down; a shorter answer from your own memory scores higher than a recited one.

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