The 46-year-old from Essex, who claimed gold in the 400-metre hurdles at the Barcelona 1992 Olympics, is set to speak to over 600 students from girls' schools throughout the United Kingdom who it is hoped will be inspired by the recent success of London 2012.

Seven of the medals won by Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics were won by GSA alumnae and this year, the conference will take place on September 19 at Moira House Girls School in Eastbourne, in association with the University of Brighton.

"GSA schools organise Girls Go Gold every year because, in a society where so few women's sports are given prime time television coverage, it's vital that young girls have opportunities to meet high-achieving female sporting role models and to have their sporting aspirations and aptitudes taken seriously," said GSA President Louise Robinson.

"This year, with the Olympics giving us so many great role models, it's more important than ever to keep up the momentum."

Sally Gunnell took gold in the women's 400m hurdles at Barcelona 1992

As well as hearing from Gunnell, the students will participate in workshops and presentations including careers in sport, sport and exercise science and sport journalism.

The delegates are all in years 10 to 13 and all elite athletes, representing their school, county, region or country in their chosen specialist sport.

"In conjunction with the University of Brighton, we are delighted to host this unique event to inspire and encourage young athletes to reach their full potential in their chosen sport," added Moira House Principal and GSA Sports Committee chair Lesley Watson.

Girls Go Gold is hosted by a different school each year and this year's is a fitting host as Moira House was the first girls' school to allow girls to play cricket.

The GSA itself represents UK independent girls' schools and girls in over 68 per cent of GSA schools routinely represent their country at international level in their chosen sport.

In addition, over 87 per cent of GSA schools have pupils who compete at national level.

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