Martin Bell (skier) facts for kids

Martin Bell (born 6 December 1964) is a famous British former alpine ski racer. He was one of the best skiers from the UK during the 1980s and 1990s. Martin Bell is especially known for his amazing eighth-place finish in the downhill event at the 1988 Winter Olympics. This was the best result ever for a male British skier at the Olympics!

Martin Bell: A British Skiing Star

Early Life and Training

Martin Bell was born in RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus. He went to school at George Watson's College in Edinburgh, Scotland. To become a top skier, he also trained at the Stams Schigymnasium in Austria. This school is very famous for helping young skiers develop their skills.

Olympic Dreams and Achievements

Martin Bell represented Great Britain in four Winter Olympics. He competed in 1984, 1988, 1992, and 1994. His most memorable performance was at the 1988 Games in Calgary, Canada. There, he finished eighth in the downhill race. The downhill is one of the fastest and most exciting alpine skiing events. Skiers race down a long, steep course, trying to be the quickest. His eighth-place finish was a historic moment for British skiing.

Competing on the World Stage

Besides the Olympics, Martin Bell also competed in five Alpine World Ski Championships. These championships bring together the best skiers from around the world. He took part in these big events from 1985 to 1993.

A Family of Skiers

Martin Bell and his brother, Graham Bell, were both very successful British skiers. They were the top British alpine skiers throughout the 1980s and 1990s. It's pretty cool to have two brothers at the top of their sport!

Life After Skiing

Today, Martin Bell lives near Vail, Colorado, in the United States. He is married to Laura Bell and they have two daughters, Reece and Imogen.