Team GB has claimed their first gold medal at the Winter Olympics as Matt Weston secured victory in the men’s skeleton event. Weston, aged 28, was a top contender for Team GB in Milano Cortina and displayed exceptional performance in the competition, leading after the initial two heats.
His consistent runs of 56.21 and 55.88 in the first two heats resulted in an overall time of 1:52.09 going into the second day of competition. Weston continued his impressive form with a remarkable time of 55.63 in the third heat. The highlight was his final run, setting a track record time of 55.61, which led to an emotional celebration with his teammate Marcus Wyatt and Team GB coaches.
This victory marks a significant achievement for Weston, who finished 15th in the previous Winter Olympics. Meanwhile, Wyatt also put up a strong performance on the second day but settled for seventh place with a total time of 3:45.77.
Expressing his emotions after the win, Weston stated, “It means everything. It means a hell of a lot to me personally, I have worked so hard for this. Everyone back at home, my fiancee, my family, my friends, everyone that has sacrificed for me to be here. I have missed funerals, birthdays, everything for this moment and it feels amazing.”
Team GB finally made their mark on the medal table at the Winter Olympics with Weston’s triumph. German athletes Axel Jungk and Christopher Grotheer secured the silver and bronze medals, respectively.
Commenting on Weston’s performance, Lizzie Yarnold praised his speed and decision-making under intense pressure, highlighting the dedication and effort put in by athletes like Weston. Team GB’s chef de mission, Eve Muirhead, expressed delight and admiration for Weston’s composure and exceptional performance, emphasizing his resilience and talent.
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