Colchester firm helps skier achieve Olympic dream - March 2010

A Colchester-based shipping firm is celebrating after the skiing star it sponsors won Olympic glory at the Vancouver games.

Reigning British Alpine Ski champion Ed Drake, who was able to compete in his first ever Olympic Games thanks to the support of Wallis Shipping, achieved 29th place in the Men’s Super Combined event thanks to a strong Slalom run.

Stuart Gregory, Managing Director of Wallis Shipping, which specialises in global freight and logistics, said: “We are extremely proud that our sponsorship has helped Ed fly the flag for Britain at the Winter Olympics. To be among the top 30 skiers in the Combined Downhill and Slalom event is a triumph and a great result for the British team.”

Ed who is 24 and ranked five in the world in his age group, was also among the top 40 skiers in the Olympic Downhill Skiing and Super G and Giant Slalom races which took place in Whistler.

He has strong family links to Colchester, his grandparents having lived in the town for many years and his father a former student at Colchester Institute. Ed said: "I've dreamed about being at the Olympic Winter Games. It’s the biggest stage there is and I’ve been able to represent my country. I am aiming to build on my success in preparation for the next games in Sochi in 2014 and to have the sponsorship of Wallis Shipping is invaluable.”

Stuart Gregory added: “Wallis Shipping has strong links with local sport and Ed is a great inspiration and role model. We help with travel and training expenses and look forward to continuing to support him as he continues to go from strength to strength.”

Wallis Shipping Services Ltd