SportsWheelchair Boccia
What does this sport involve?
This is a sport adapted from a game, similar to modern day French boules or petanque, which was played in Italy in the 16th century. It is originally thought to have its origins in a game played in Ancient Greece.
There is a long field of play which is 12.5 metres long x 6 metres wide. The balls are made of leather and the aim of the game is to throw the ball as close as possible to the ‘jack’, the white target ball.
All events are mixed, with men and women competing in individual and pairs events, which are played over 4 rounds, and team events , which are played over 6 rounds. Players score one point for having the closest ball to the jack at the end of the round.
Who can compete?
Men and women with a high level of physical disability.
Players are divided into categories to ensure equality of competition as follows: BCI athletes project ball which is placed in hand by an aide, BC2 athletes with cerebral palsy but less severe disability - no aide, BC3 – WAD athletes project ball with an assistive device or ‘chute’ and have an aide, BC4 athletes who are severely disabled but do not have cerebral palsy - no aide.
If you think you would like to try this sport or would like to know more?
The national body responsible for organisation of this sport is:
Cerebral Palsy Sport, Unit 2 Heathcoat Building, Nottingham Science and Technology Park, Nottingham, Notts NG7 2QJ
www.cpsport.org/boccia/index.shtml
www.cpsport.org/boccia/contacts.shtml
National Boccia Manager: Chris Fitzgerald
Tel: 0115 967 8455
email: chris.fitzgerald@cpsport.org
Boccia Coordinator: Lucy Hall
Tel: 0115 967 8455
email: boccia@cpsport.org
Did you know?
GBs first Boccia individual gold was won by Nigel Murray in Sydney 2000
Would I like this sport and what are the benefits?
An inclusive sport requiring, skill, focus and determination. Particularly suitable for people with severe physical disability who would like to be involved in sport
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© BP 2012
