By Hannah Blackwell
Deposed world champion David Smith has admitted his disappointment at losing his boccia crown.
The Swansea-based Paralympic champion lost his World Championship title in Rio de Janeiro over the weekend.
Smith had to settle for a silver medal in the BC1 class after being well beaten by formidable opponent, Witsanu Huadpradit of Thailand, who won 5-0 to secure gold.
“I’m a little bit deflated but I’m satisfied with how I played,” said Smith.
“It was a bit frustrating that I had a few hits that didn’t do anything. Congratulations to Huadpradit – he’s always been a big rival of mine so I don’t mind losing to him as such.
“I had a chance and unfortunately the floor didn’t let me take it and that’s just how it goes.”
Look who’s warming up…@Bocciasmithy is on the livestream at 12:30
🎥 www.linktree/bocciauk pic.twitter.com/hh47eH9Vvv
— Boccia UK (@BocciaUK) December 8, 2022
Northern Ireland’s Claire Taggart was crowned World Boccia champion after she beat Rebecca Duarte of El Salvador, 7-1, in the BC2 women’s final.
It is the first time that two players from Britain have featured in the individual finals of the World Boccia Championships since 2010.
Great Britain performance director Greg Baker says the outstanding results are testament to the dedication and hard work of the players.
“I am incredibly proud of how the team have performed out here in Rio,” he said.
“Two fantastic medals and a great platform for us to build from as we get closer to Paris 2024.
CLAIRE TAGGART – you are WORLD CHAMPION!!!!@TaggartClaire pic.twitter.com/2sROJFQIEE
— Boccia UK (@BocciaUK) December 10, 2022
“Claire has been very consistent at this competition and has shown her world class level throughout.
“David will be disappointed to not win another world title, but he won a great silver medal and knowing him he will build and progress over the next 18 months to be as strong as he can be for Paris.
“The rest of the team have also had some great wins, beating top 10 ranked players and progressing into last 16 and quarter-final matches.
“They should be proud of their achievements and I know all of them want to improve and maximise their potential to be amongst semi-finals and onwards in future competitions. This is now our mission to do just that as a collective athlete and staff team.”