Hamilton athletes claim top 2 spots

Media release
30 June 2014

Hamilton athletes claim top 2 spots

20 athletes from across the North Island descended on Hamilton looking for crucial ranking points to help their chances ahead of the National Championships later this year.

The 2-day Upper North Island Boccia Championships held in Hamilton over the weekend of 28-29 June came to a close and it was local athletes who enjoyed notable success.

After topping the group in pool play, two-time Paralympian Maurice Toon was too strong for the rest of his competition en route to claiming the gold medal in the BC1, 2 and 4 combined grades.

“Maurice has been a top performer for the past decade and was always going to be the one to beat on home soil” said Boccia New Zealand Director Luke Morriss.

The tournament also unlocked another local star in Vishal Chandra, who lost the final 3-11 against Toon but was thrilled to take away the silver.

“I’m really happy to be able to score points in the final against Maurice. Next year I will be aiming for gold” said Chandra.

“Vishal has shown excellent potential over the past couple of years and has developed his arsenal through regular training at his local Parafed Waikato Boccia Club” said Morriss.

Boccia is a sport designed for individuals with physical impairments and is best described as an indoor version of petanque with soft leather balls. The aim of the game is to get as many of your coloured balls as close as possible to the jack while preventing the opposition from doing the same.

Local Parafed Waikato Sports Development Officer Carol Armstrong has been influential in helping to grow the strength of the Hamilton-based club.

To get involved with the club or to find out more information contact Carol Armstrong on 07 858 5388 or visit www.boccia.org.nz

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