Stephen Czechs out with two golds World champ Mcguire dominant in Prague
Boccia world champion Stephen Mcguire took gold in both events at the Czech Open Championships, and admitted he used the competition to sharpen up for the 2016 Paralympics in Rio.
Stephen (31) from Hamilton was pleased with his performance against a competitive field in Prague, and says it’s all now a matter of tactics ahead of the big event in Brazil.
He’ll get another chance in Portugal from June 13-19 at the final World Open event, which will pitch him in against many of his opponents in Rio.
Stephen said: “I competed in the Czech Open Championships in Prague from May 20-22.
“There was both a pairs competition and an individual competition over the three days, and I’m delighted to have won gold in both.
“The level of competition was all from a European field, countries that competed consisted of Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, GB, Scotland and Germany.
“It was not as high as the World Championships, but still fielded four out of the top 15 world-ranked players and two pairs ranked within the top eight in the world.
“Playing in Prague is always special to me – I’ve been coming here a few times each year and have many friends. It’s like my second home!
“Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The architecture, the atmosphere and residents make it very welcoming for everyone and my partner Michaela lives in Prague, so I’ve been able to spend a few days recovering after the competition before coming home.”
Stephen added: “This is the second time I’ve managed to win this event in Prague.
“The the organising team, volunteers and sponsors allow it to grow, year on year, as a reputable, worthwhile competition.
“I used this to sharpen up a few tactics for this year and, as it was my first competition since becoming world champion, it added a different dimension to my preparations.
“I’ve been selected for the final World Open event in Portugal next month. It’s the final competitive opportunity before selection takes place for the Rio Paralympics and the Rio Games itself.
“All the major competitors who will be in Rio will be there to judge where everyone is at, tactically, and psychologically gain any advantage they can.”