Chris Hunt Skelley MBE steps back from elite judo

Chris Hunt Skelley MBE, who is one of the UK’s most successful judoka, has announced that he’s stepping away from competitive judo to forge a new career.

The 31 year old won a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics competing in the newly introduced +90 kg weight category. He had previously been a gold medallist at the Tokyo 2020 Games in a different weight category. He joins the few athletes in judo who have won two medals at two different games in different weight categories.

Chris released a video message on social media today (11 February) thanking his team mates, his coaches and his family and friends for their support during his competitive career.

He said: “It’s been a tough decision but it’s the right decision. I’ve had an amazing time doing a sport that I love. Judo has saved me. It has given me purpose and it has given me the life I have always wanted and I will always be grateful to this sport.”

As Chris moves into 2025 he intends to continue to be involved in judo and will offer professional masterclasses to grass roots clubs across the UK and he is still part of the Paris 2024 roadshow where the elite competitors travel to clubs to meet and greet those who love judo.

His coach, Ian Johns, commented on Chris’ retirement: “I’m so very proud that over the last 10 to 15 years of knowing Chris that he has absolutely given it everything and he’s going to finish the sport a legend… that’s what we talked about finishing the sport: making it a better place than when he found it.

“Chris has taken what those before him did and managed to emulate them and make sure he writes his name down in history as well. I’ve grown as a coach because of him. He’s always pushed me to be my best as well.”

Chris is already an accomplished professional and motivational speaker and is also exploring TV commentating and become a pundit for his sport.

“I love my sport and will always love it and be involved with it,” said Chris. “Now it’s time for a new adventure and for me to be able to spend more time with my wife, my family and friends.

“When you are in elite sport, you give up a lot to stay at the top of your game – indeed it’s required and that’s what you do to be among the best in the world. For me, the timing felt right to step aside and let other judoka enter the arena and have their moment representing their country.”

Chris, who is visually impaired due to oculocutaneous albinism, discovered his passion for judo when other sports were no longer safe for him. Judo became his sanctuary during a challenging time, and he quickly rose through the ranks by competing blindfolded and prevailing over sighted competitors.

Chris’s journey has been supported during his competitive career by generous sponsors including Aldi, Imagine Cruising, Ryse Energy, Phonak, United Strength & Conditioning, and GLL Sport Foundation.

“I am deeply grateful to these companies for their unwavering support, which has allowed me to focus on achieving my goals,” Chris added.

To see Chris’ video announcing his retirement from elite sport visit:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopher.skelley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christopher.skelley.3

Twitter: https://x.com/ChristopherSke2

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-hunt-skelley-mbe-ply-73014212b/