Hester Poole, an 18-year-old para-alpine skier from Bath, has proven that dreaming big can lead to extraordinary achievements. Within just a fortnight, she received the rare double honor of a Paralympic call-up and an offer to study English Literature at the University of Cambridge.
Poole, who is visually impaired, learned three weeks before the Paralympic Opening Ceremony that she had been selected to represent ParalympicsGB at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games. This thrilling news came only two weeks after she secured her place at Cambridge, all while balancing A-level revision and university applications with competing on the World Cup ski circuit.
Reflecting on her journey, Poole shared, “It’s been a nail-biting wait, but it feels all the sweeter for it. It hasn’t quite sunk in yet. I had the audacity to dream big from a very young age. When I was eight, I decided I was going to Cambridge. I’ve managed to keep that dream alongside my skiing dreams, and it’s all come together in a really nice way.”
READ MORE: Noise Concerns Surround New Padel Courts Proposal Near Bath
READ MORE: Somerset Hospital Evacuated Following Early Morning Fire
Poole credits her supportive network and understanding teachers who accommodated her unique schedule: “They accepted my half-finished essays instead of what they’d asked for, and I’m really grateful for that support. Balancing sport and academics has been tough, but every athlete understands that challenge.”
Her guide, Ali Hall, who shares a background in psychology studies at the University of Edinburgh, will accompany Poole on the slopes in Cortina D’Ampezzo as she makes her Paralympic debut. Born with a congenital retinal condition causing partial vision loss, Poole has trained tirelessly since childhood. Inspired by Kelly Gallagher, Britain’s first Paralympic alpine skiing gold medalist, and now her coach, she knew from a young age that competing at this level was possible.
“I started skiing at a baby race club in the Mendips, but watching Kelly win gold really lit a fire under me,” Poole said. “I was identified for GB skiing at 12, and since then, it’s been a steady build-up.”
Beyond sport and academics, Poole engages actively in charitable work. As an ambassador for Guide Dogs for the Blind and Ethiopia Aid—which supports children with sight loss and victims of domestic violence—she emphasizes the power of opportunity. “It’s about giving people choice and showing them they can live life how they want,” she said.
Looking ahead to the Paralympics, Poole plans to focus on enjoying the experience rather than placing undue pressure on herself. “When I put too much expectation on myself, I tend to fall at the start gate,” she admitted with a smile. “I’m representing my country, so I want to do well, but most importantly, I love the sport and want to soak it all in. Plus, I get to miss an A-level mock – that’s a bonus!”