My part in Britain's Olympic success (From Darlington and Stockton Times)
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Thirsk chiropractor returns from helping Team GB sailors perform
4:25pm Thursday 23rd August 2012 in News
By Mark Foster
MEMORIES: Richard Skippings with the baton marking his service as a volunteer and a poster signed by fellow volunteers
RICHARD Skippings has lived the Olympic dream – without running a yard.
The chiropractor said he has been left with golden memories after working as a volunteer in an elite multi-disciplinary medical team to treat international athletes at the Olympic Sailing Village in Weymouth.
Sports injury specialist Mr Skippings, of the Thirsk Chiropractic Clinic, Carlton Miniott, Thirsk, was selected for the role after having been chairman of the Faculty of Sport and Exercise of the College of Chiropractors since 2006.
He spent eight days diagnosing, treating and preventing disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system and the effects the disorders had on the sailors and windsurfers’ general health.
Mr Skippings was working during all the medal races, so the sailing fan was unable to join the crowds who turned out to watch Britain’s medal-winning team, but said he was delighted to witness some of the medal presentation ceremonies.
He said: “It was a tremendous experience working with a group of dedicated professionals who were there for the athlete and were willing to learn and impart their knowledge and experience to others.
“So not only did we get to treat the athletes and be part of a great occasion, but it was also a wonderful learning experience that will benefit the patients in my regular clinic.”
