Paralympic champion and world class British judoka, Chris Hunt Skelley MBE recently presented the first ever Chris Hunt Skelley Award to honour 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 and started his judo club at 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 club, Chris is one of their heroes.
Chris, who lives in Wiltshire but was born and brought up in Hull, said: “It is 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 creates sense of community.”
The award, given to Ricky as a surprise by Chris himself.
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.”
Ricky was delighted and thrilled to meet his hero.
He 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, not just in the sport.
“I just 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 Cheshire cat, it’s such an honour.”
In 2012, Ricky as awarded 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 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/
Article from Scott Media
