Paralympic Gold Winner Reveals Mental Health Battle

When Paralympic gold medalist Chris Hunt Skelley stepped onto the mat in Paris, he'd already won the fight of his life.

The British judo champion delivered a powerful speech at New College Swindon's graduation ceremony on October 16th, sharing how he nearly didn't make it to the 2024 Games at all. Despite winning gold in Tokyo and bronze in Paris, Skelley told students his toughest battle wasn't against any opponent.

"In 2024, I went through hell," Skelley told the audience of graduates and their families. The athlete from Wroughton revealed he reached such a dark place that he told his wife Louise he no longer wanted to be alive.

Skelley credited his wife, mother, and friends with pulling him through the darkest period of his life. He described fighting the voice in his head telling him he wasn't good enough, a battle that made his Paralympic competition feel easy by comparison.

The 2021 Tokyo gold medalist began losing his sight as a teenager due to oculocutaneous albinism. He retired from competitive judo in February 2025 and now shares his story with young people facing their own struggles.

His message to the New College graduates was simple but powerful: courage isn't about winning medals. It's about acknowledging your difficulties, taking chances, and moving forward.

Why This Inspires

Skelley's honesty breaks down the myth that champions don't struggle. By sharing his lowest moment at a celebration meant to honor achievement, he gave graduates permission to be human while pursuing their dreams.

"Be honest with yourself, and just try your best. That's all we can do," he told the students. "And just be brave."

The graduation ceremony celebrated students completing higher education qualifications across multiple disciplines. New College Swindon received University Centre status in 2023, offering local students pathways to degrees without leaving their hometown.

Graduate Amy Marlow, who completed a Diploma in Education and Training, described feeling "absolutely elated" after her journey. Beauty therapy graduates Freya, Tia, and Phoebe all shared plans to open their own salons in Swindon.

Skelley finished his speech with words that resonated beyond the ceremony: "I am so proud of you all."