Chris Pullin’s Rift with Ellidy Over Chumpy Pullin Foundation
Sydney, 7 January 2026 – In a heartbreaking family dispute, Chris Pullin, father of the late Olympic snowboarder Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin, revealed a bitter falling-out with his son’s widow, Ellidy Pullin, over the management of the Chumpy Pullin Foundation. Established in honour of the athlete who tragically drowned in 2020, the charity has become a point of contention, with Chris accusing Ellidy of shifting its focus away from Chumpy’s ideals.
Background on Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin
Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin was a celebrated Australian snowboarder who represented his country at the 2010, 2014, and 2018 Winter Olympics, serving as flag-bearer in Sochi 2014. He won gold medals at the 2011 and 2013 World Championships and was known for mentoring young athletes. Tragically, he drowned during a spearfishing accident off the Gold Coast in July 2020 at the age of 32. Through posthumous sperm retrieval and IVF, his partner Ellidy Pullin gave birth to their daughter, Minnie Alex Pullin, in October 2021.
The Rift Over the Foundation
The Chumpy Pullin Foundation was set up after his death to honour his legacy, focusing on winter sports and youth development. However, in May 2024, Chris Pullin and his late wife Sally (who passed away from cancer in 2024) sent an email to the foundation’s board, expressing concerns that the organisation had deviated from its original principles. Chris alleged that Ellidy, who was involved in the foundation, had ‘blocked’ him and Sally, and accused the board of ‘manipulation’. He urged them to ‘rebadge’ the charity if it pursued a new direction, such as mental health initiatives, which he believed did not align with Chumpy’s ideals. The foundation has since become defunct, highlighting the deep family divide.
Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin’s Achievements | Two-time World Champion (2011, 2013); Olympic flag-bearer (2014); Represented Australia in three Winter Olympics. |
| Cause of Death | Drowned in a spearfishing accident on the Gold Coast, 8 July 2020. |
| Family Legacy | Daughter Minnie born via IVF in October 2021; Foundation established but dissolved amid disputes. |
| The Dispute | Chris Pullin accused Ellidy of blocking him and shifting the foundation’s focus; Email sent in May 2024. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Chumpy Pullin Foundation?
The foundation was created to honour Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin’s legacy in winter sports, particularly snowboarding and youth mentoring. It aimed to support aspiring athletes but faced internal conflicts leading to its closure.
Why did Chris Pullin have a rift with Ellidy?
Chris believed the foundation had strayed from Chumpy’s principles, possibly towards mental health causes, and accused Ellidy of excluding him and his wife from involvement, leading to accusations of manipulation.
How did Ellidy have Chumpy’s child after his death?
Following Chumpy’s death, Ellidy underwent IVF using sperm retrieved posthumously, resulting in the birth of their daughter Minnie in October 2021.