British skeleton boss earns Olympic recognition

The Austrian played an integral role in guiding Great Britain to a hat-trick of medals at February's Winter Olympic Games in PyeongChang as Lizzy Yarnold won back-to-back golds and both Dom Parsons and Laura Deas scooped bronze.

Former World Champion Schmid was chosen from 98 nominations from 38 countries submitted by a panel of Olympic committees, international federations and Olympians among others.

"I am hugely honoured, and very grateful, to receive this award," he said.

"I see it as further recognition of the work of the whole British Skeleton programme and the success we have achieved together.

"The Olympics have given me and my team so many happy memories and this is another one of those.

"British Skeleton have had so many highlights since the sport was re-introduced to the Olympic family and I'm very proud to have shared them with such a hard-working, dedicated and exceptional group of athletes and support staff.

"It was always my dream to compete at the very top of the sport as an athlete, but I didn't have the opportunity to go to an Olympic Winter Games as I had retired before 2002.

"The sport has made so much progress since then and it is wonderful to see Skeleton thriving in the Olympic programme. Long may it continue."

Schmid was named Coach of the Year by the British Olympic Association last month following his step down from his role as performance director in August.

BOA Chairman Sir Hugh Robertson said: "The recognition for Andi is reward for the life-long dedication he has given to the sport of skeleton."

"There are many athletes who have benefitted from his experience, knowledge and passion.

"He not only embodies the Olympic values but those of Team GB and it is a proud moment for the organisation and the country as a whole to see Andi recognised."

Sportsbeat 2018