Wiltshire Paralympic Champ Presents Award in his own name. Paralympic champion and world class British judoka, Chris Hunt Skelley MBE, recently presented the first ever Chris Hunt Skelley Award. It honours those who champion inclusion and the sport of judo.
Earlier this month, Chris presented the Chris Hunt Skelley Award for inclusion and dedication to Judo to long-standing and award-winning judo coach, Ricky Haynes, at an event in London.
Ricky Haynes, recipient of the award, started judo at the age of five. He then started his judo club, aged 17, in Walthamstow in 1981 – Kelmscott Judo Club. He also has a close relationship with Hackney Judo Club. Since then, 100s of young people have come through its doors to embrace the sport and the life skills associated with it. For Ricky and many in the club, Chris is one of their heroes.
Chris, who lives in Wiltshire but was born and brought up in Hull, said: ‘It’s a serious and massive honour to have an award named after me. Especially an award celebrating inclusion and dedication to judo. This award symbolises how judo is for everyone, no matter what your disability is. It installs so many core values and creates a sense of community.’
As a surprise for Ricky, Chris presented him with the award in person.
Chris said: ‘Ricky represents what judo is all about. What he does for people in this sport is fantastic and giving it to him was an even bigger honour.’
Delighted to meet his hero, Ricky said: ‘It was fantastic getting the award from Chris, he’s an absolute gentleman. He has done so much for the sport, especially for someone with the disability of sight. He is an inspiration to everyone, both inside and outside the sport.’
Making a difference
Ricky further said: I enjoy coaching and making a difference and to give people that opportunity to change. Getting this award emphasises the work I’ve done in Walthamstow and with my judo family. I’m grinning like the proverbial Cheshire cat, it’s such an honour.’
In 2012, Ricky received the British Judo Association Coach of the Year Award.
‘This award feels very different from that – coming from Chris and from an individual rather than an organisation, feels far more personal. To be recipient of the very first Chris Hunt Skelley MBE Award, is one of the highlights of my career.’
The club’s award will continue next year, and into the future for members and trainers.
I can’t wait for someone else to get the award next year. If you know anyone who fosters inclusivity and dedication to Judo, please do nominate that person,’ concluded Chris. “This award will highlight the amazing sport of Judo.’
To find out more about Chris Hunt Skelley MBE, visit: https://chrishuntskelley.co.uk/.
