Boccia: A challenging game for Paralympians

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Source: CCTV.com | 09-08-2008 16:01

Boccia is a sport not well-known or popular among the general public. Paralympic athletes face a series of challenges while playing it.

Throwing balls is the major thing that Boccia athletes  have to do.

Throwing balls is the major thing that Boccia athletes have to do. But this singular movement is not as easy as it looks all of the competitors here suffer either from cerebral palsy or severe physical disabilities.

Hart Wingkwok, coach of Hong Kong SAR Team, said, "The biggest challenge for them is the time control and accuracy of throwing balls. As coach, I always tell them not to exert too much pressure on themselves. They can do better if they have a light mood."

The first player starts the match by throwing the white target ball, or "jack", into the playing area. He then throws 6 boccia balls as close as possible to jack. The second player then throws 6 additional balls, trying to get even closer. A point is awarded for each of the six closest throws.

But a light mood is not enough to do well in this competition.

Tara Chieve, skill advisor of Team Canada, said, "They may have problems like being affected by cheering crowds."

Despite all the internal and external obstacles they face, Boccia athletes put everything on the line during competition.

Boccia players may be unable to express themselves in words, but they more than make up for it with their skills. Upholding the ideals of the Paralympian movement their willpower and determination to beat the odds are an inspiration to people around the world.

Editor:Zhang Ning