Perthshire boccia player set for World Cup

May 27 2011 by Greg Christison, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

PERTHSHIRE boccia player Joshua Rowe believes this month’s BT Paralympic World Cup is the ideal platform to kick-start his London 2012 attack.

The 18-year-old is part of the GB squad heading to Manchester to make its debut at the Paralympic World Cup – the largest international multi-sport disability competition leading up to the London 2012 Paralympic Games – with an exhibition match against Ireland.

Former Auchterarder High School pupil Rowe is hoping this is just the start of what promises to be a big 18 months for him.

“I am really looking forward to being a part of boccia’s debut at the Paralympic World Cup and I can’t wait to get going in Manchester now,” he said.

“It's really important to raise the profile of boccia in this country because so many people don't know what it is.

“London 2012 will be extremely beneficial in terms of raising the profile of boccia and already a lot more people are aware of what boccia is.

“And hopefully I will be a part of that massive event if I can build on the Paralympic World Cup and keep working hard.”

After Rowe has left his mark in Manchester he will turn his attentions to October and the British Championships.

At last year’s event Rowe announced himself with a bronze medal and he is looking to once again visit the podium as he looks to continue his climb up the international ladder.

“London 2012 is a huge motivation for me, it's what keeps me training as I aspire to be selected,” he added.

“The biggest competition of the year for me is the World Cup, if I'm selected, followed by the British Championships.

“My preparations for this event have been going well, and I'm always looking to improve every aspect of my game and I want to show that with another strong performance at the British Championships.”

The BT Paralympic World Cup is taking place in Manchester from 23-28 May with elite international athletes competing in Swimming, Athletics and Wheelchair Basketball. Go to www.btparalympicworldcup.com for tickets.