Boccia European Individual Cup Set to Begin on Thursday

A handful of Boccia players have already qualified for the London 2012 Paralympic Games in some of the pairs events, but there are several athletes competing in this week’s Boccia European Cup still seeking a spot in the individual field.

A total of 59 competitors from 17 nations will gather in Hamar, Norway, from 27-31 October for the event, which consists of a preliminary pool round followed by an elimination round.

One such athlete yearning for an individual spot at London 2012 is Portugal’s Domingos Jose Vieira da Costa.

Da Costa, Portugal’s reigning national champion in the BC4 class, has increased his training from three times a week to daily practice sessions in preparation for this Cup specifically.

Although he won bronze at August’s Boccia World Cup in Belfast, Northern Ireland, the 28-year-old volunteer fireman, who began his sports career in 2003, is still relatively new to international competitions.

“Considering my short experience in international events, it is difficult to say who could be my main opponent,” da Costa said. “Right now, since I am the ‘freshman,’ everyone will be my main opponent.”

Da Costa is currently ranked No. 11 in the world, and he will be joined in Hamar by No 4. Stephen McGuire of Great Britain and No. 6 Jose Maria Dueso of Spain.

In the BC 1 class, Portugal’s Joao Paulo Fernandes is the top-ranked player, but will not be participating in Hamar. No. 3 David Smith of Great Britain and No. 5 Antonio Marques of Portugal willl headline the competition instead.

With the absence of world-great Nigel Murray in the BC2 class, Portugal’s Abilio Valente will be the heavy favourite, while No. 2 Grigorios Polychronidis of Greece will be the one to beat in the BC3 class.