Paralympian Receives Honorary Award. Paralympian Louise Hunt Skelley PLY has received a Special Recognition Award. The honour comes for her tireless work in the media, in the world of wheelchair tennis, and in being a champion for diversity and inclusion.
Louise is a former British wheelchair tennis athlete and Paralympian from Wroughton, Swindon. She attended the South West Business & Community Awards as a nominee in the hotly- contested category of Female Entrepreneur of the Year.
A total surprise
Louise was unaware that she’d receive the Special Recognition Award that night (March 12). But her husband Chris, her parents Tim and Linda and her friends were all in on the secret!
‘I did not see that coming. Gosh, I’m in shock,’ Louise said. ‘A big thank you to whomever nominated me and the amazing judges. I could thank a million people. I’ve got the best family and friends in the whole world and I didn’t achieve that on my own. I did it because they believed in me and pushed me.
A big thank you has to go to my husband Chris as he literally makes me think I can achieve anything and believes in every crazy idea I have. He understands my level of ambition is beyond normal!
The award honoured her achievements including the release of her book What’s Wrong with You? And her commentating at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, the Tokyo Paralympics and many Wimbledon championships. She’s also an accomplished speaker and tennis tournament director. Further, she’s made a successful transition from full-time world class wheelchair tennis player to a successful businesswoman.
Elite athlete
Louise is one of Wiltshire’s most accomplished elite athletes. She represented Great Britain at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.
Paul Day, of Filestream which was the headline sponsor for the event and who presented the award said:
‘As judges, someone will come to our attention for a special recognition award. She stood out to receive this award in 2025. She proves to us all that ‘impossible’ is not a word she recognises.
By being positive, ambitious, and determined Louise defies boundaries. Every morning, she puts on a necklace given to her by her husband that says, ‘Abnormally Ambitious’. That paints the most accurate picture of her.’
The event played a recorded message from Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson. In it she congratulated Louise for her sporting achievements and her dedication to supporting others since leaving elite sport.
Find out more about Louise Hunt Skelley PLY by visiting: http://www.louisehunt.co.uk.
Louise’s book
From her website: ‘This isn’t just a memoir; it’s a rallying cry for anyone who’s ever been told they can’t. With sharp wit, unshakable grit, and a refreshing no-holds-barred perspective, Louise shares the highs and lows that have shaped her, proving time and time again that society’s limits are meant to be shattered.’
