Photo: Tomas Martin (left) and Ioan Williams (right) celebrate with their medals.
The champion for each classification was decided by a best of three match. This made for high quality and closely contested games as the players learned more about their opponents’ strengths and weaknesses throughout the rounds.
Rachel Bailey, Sian Jones, Mark Roderick, Gareth Stafford and Tomas Martin all made a return to the court shortly after competing in the Challenger event in Northern Ireland in March. For others the Welsh Championships were a welcome return to competitive boccia after more lengthy periods.
Photo: BC2 winner Luke Walsh (left) and runner-up Sian Jones (right)
The action came thick and fast with everything from high scoring ends to tight tie breakers on offer. Nothing was guaranteed and the up-and-coming young talents taking the game to the more experienced players. Rhys Sansom, Sian Jones, Gareth Stafford/Gill Stafford and Ioan Williams all performed well and ensured that the champion of each classification earnt their title. Ultimately Rachel Bailey secured the BC1 title with a 2-1 victory, while Luke Walsh (BC2), Mark Roderick/Rhianna Davies (BC3) and Tomas Martin (BC4) all took a 2-0 win over their opposition.
Attention now turns to the Para Sport Festival where the UK Teams and Pairs Boccia Championship will take place this summer. Taking place over two days (Wednesday 10th and Thursday 11th July 2024) the tournament will see a host of competitions including pairs and teams.
Photo: BC1 champion Rachel Bailey (left) and runner-up Rhys Sansom (right)
2024 Welsh Champions
- Rachel Bailey (BC1)
- Luke Walsh (BC2)
- Mark Roderick and Rhianna Davies (BC3)
- Tomas Martin (BC4)
Photo: From left to right: Nathan Stephens, DSW Head of Performance Development with BC3 winners Mark Roderick and Rhianna Davies, with DSW Performance Pathway Senior Officer Morgan Jones.
