Adele Nicoll: GB Shot Put Champion Makes Historic ‘Movie Script’ Gamble Pay Off
Adele Nicoll, a three-time British shot put champion, is making headlines as she transitions into a bobsleigh competitor. After previously serving as a reserve during the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, the 29-year-old athlete has made a significant leap in her career. Nicoll’s determination to take on a new challenge led her to become the first British athlete to compete in Olympic Monobob, a solo bobsleigh event.
A Bold Transition
In a decisive move, Nicoll switched from being a brakeman to the driver’s seat of the sled. This shift exemplifies a remarkable gamble on herself that has recently paid off in a historic manner. Based at the University of Bath, she is now a key member of Team GB’s bobsleigh squad.
Training and Preparation
Nicoll’s journey began during the COVID-19 lockdown when she shared a sprint training video on social media. It caught the attention of Mica McNeill, an experienced GB pilot, who invited her to join the team. To excel in her new sport, Nicoll underwent a dramatic physique transformation, losing over 20 kg (about three stone) to enhance her speed and agility.
Achievements and Milestones
In her short time as a bobsleigh competitor, Nicoll has quickly established herself as a formidable athlete:
- World Cup Silver Medal in Lake Placid (2-woman event)
- Europa Cup Gold Medal in St Moritz (2-woman event)
- Europa Cup Silver Medal in St Moritz (Monobob)
- 12th place in the World Cup at Winterberg (best Monobob finish)
These achievements underline her remarkable adaptation to bobsleigh and her competitive spirit.
A New Era for British Bobsleigh
In the upcoming events, Nicoll will partner with Ashleigh Nelson, a former Olympic sprinter. Together, they embody a fresh wave in British bobsleigh, focusing on athletic power and resilience. Nicoll’s competition schedule is packed, with her Monobob event taking place on February 13-14 and the two-woman event scheduled for February 20-21 in Italy.
Looking Ahead
After her Olympic commitments, Nicoll plans to return to the shot put arena, aiming to represent Wales at the 2026 Commonwealth Games later in the summer. Her determination showcases her multifaceted athletic talent and her commitment to excelling in multiple sports.
