Chris Skelley

Chris started judo as his parents wanted him to do extracurricular sporting activities. He started attending his local judo club which was recommended by rugby coach.

At the age of 17, Chris’ eyesight began to deteriorate which eventually caused him to stop his apprenticeship to become a mechanic at the age of 18. At 19, Chris was eventually diagnosed with oculartanious albinism. As well as his job, Chris also had to stop playing rugby, meaning judo was the only constant in his life during this period.

At the age of 19 Chris moved to Walsall to train full time at the British Judo National Training Centre. Since the move Chris has been crowned European Champion and won two World Championship bronze medals. In 2019, Chris became ranked world number 1 in the -100kg category. In 2021 Chris became Paralympic Champion at the Tokyo Paralympic Games.

Outside of judo Chris is an ambassador for Phoenix Enterprises and during lockdown he was delivering food parcels to vulnerable members of his community. This saw Chris win the UK Sport Social Impact award at the PLx award evening.

Chris is also a mentor for True Athlete Project.