Amy Joy Williams, MBE, is a distinguished British former skeleton racer and Olympic gold medallist whose career has inspired many. Initially a 400m runner, Williams transitioned to skeleton racing in 2002 after an exhilarating experience on a push-start track at the University of Bath. Her dedication quickly paid off, as she secured a silver medal at the 2009 World Championships in Lake Placid, marking her as a formidable competitor on the international stage.
Williams’s crowning achievement came at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, where she made history by winning the gold medal in women’s skeleton. This victory not only made her the first British individual gold medallist at a Winter Olympics in 30 years but also the first British female to achieve this feat since 1952. Her remarkable performance included breaking the track record twice and winning by a significant margin, showcasing her exceptional talent and determination.
After retiring from competitive skeleton in 2012 due to injuries, Williams seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting and sports commentary. She co-presented the 35th series of Ski Sunday and later became a prominent figure on Channel 5’s The Gadget Show. Her expertise in ice sports has made her a valuable commentator for BBC Sport, particularly during major events like the Winter Olympics.
In addition to her media career, Williams has taken on various ambassadorial roles, including being the first Ambassador for the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust and supporting youth sports initiatives at the University of Bath. Her contributions to sports and community engagement have been recognized with an MBE, and she continues to inspire future generations through her work and advocacy.