Chris Hunt Skelley MBE, Paralympic judo gold medallist under 100kg, has been chosen to represent ParalympicsGB once again at the upcoming Paralympic Games in Paris.
Chris, who is from Hull, won gold at the Tokyo 2020 Games. He will be defending his title, though he will be competing in the newly introduced +90 kg weight category.
He said: “I’m humbled and honoured to have this opportunity to represent my country again in this sport. With the new weight category, the challenge is challenging indeed yet I’m proud to have this amazing opportunity.
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“Winning gold was the second most amazing achievement of my life – after marrying my wife Louise. I’m now putting all of my time, effort and determination into competing at the highest level in Paris.”
Chris, who is visually impaired due to ocular tanious albinism, is a former mechanic who was a keen sportsman and rugby player until the age of 17, when his eyesight began to deteriorate. He discovered his passion for judo after his failing sight meant other sports were no longer safe for him or his fellow competitors, and it became his sanctuary at a very difficult time in his life.
He was discovered as a potential Paralympian in a remarkable manner — by competing blindfolded and triumphing against sighted competitors. This dedication led him to the elite level of his sport, where he has consistently proven himself as one of the world's top judokas.
Throughout 2023, Chris maintained his dominance in the sport, holding the World No 1 ranking for a significant part of the year and currently standing strong at No 4. His path to Paris 2024 included rigorous training and participation in prestigious events, such as the European and World Championships as well as the Grand Prix judo tournament in Georgia, securing his qualification for the Paralympics.
Reflecting on his journey, Chris aims to achieve a rare feat in judo history—medalling in two Paralympic Games across different weight categories, a milestone not accomplished in over 25 years when it was last achieved by Simon Jackson. Despite challenges posed by changes in weight categories, Chris remains steadfast in his pursuit of excellence and legacy in Paralympic judo and Paralympic sport in general.
“When I step on to the mat in Paris in September, I’ll be giving my all and I know I’ll be supported by my coach, teammates, my wife and my family and friends who will all be there to cheer me on. I will strive to be the best I can be and will work hard to bring home a medal.”
Joining Chris in the judo team for ParalympicsGB are colleagues Evan Molloy and Dan Powell. While Chris will be competing at the Arena Champ-de-Mars, his wife Louise will commentating at the wheelchair tennis tournament at Roland Garros in another area of Paris.
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