The Boccia England London Regionals 2014 took place on Sunday 19th January, at the University of East London.

Five PACE athletes received classification and were eligible to compete, Alex (BC1), Ramandeep (BC2), Reshad (BC2), Jagjit (BC3) and Jamie (BC3).

Following a slow, early morning start for all the athletes, performances improved during the day and finished on a high, resulting in the athletes collecting three medals.

Alex Dukes (BC1 – Gold)

The PACE Boccia Captain had a fantastic tournament. He won one game and lost one, however his desire to attack, take opportunities and score points, led to him finishing the competition in 1st place on points difference. This result means that Alex has qualified for the National Finals in March.

Alex has been working hard with the England Lions. He trains at home and demonstrated excellent leadership skills and decision making throughout the tournament. He was on hand to support his team-mates and fellow PACE Boccia athletes through any rough patches, and led by example, taking a gold medal in the BC1 classification.

Jagjit Chuk (BC3 – Silver)

Our most experienced athlete put on one of his most calm, composed and confident performances to date. Playing with his intermediate ramp, for the last time, Jagjit won all of his group games comfortably, qualifying for the knockout stages. Having been training at PACE Boccia for over 6 years, and with the England Talent Squad for almost two years, his decision making, communication and risk taking led to Jagjit finishing the competition in second place.

Jagjit has offered his fellow BC3 rampers, Jamie, Gurpuran and Mary a tremendous amount of support, preparing them for this competition and the National League. Following his silver medal in the BC3 classification, Jagjit has also qualified for the National Finals and hopes to have his new elite boccia ramp before the competition in March.

Reshad Saraj (BC2 – Bronze)

In his second year with PACE Boccia, Reshad started off slowly and lost his first game. Clearly disappointed by this result, he showed good character to take some time out, evaluate his performance and move forwards. Following this, Reshad came back more relaxed, upped his game and won the rest of his remaining matches.

An improvement in his composure, decision making and execution lead to Reshad finishing the tournament in 3rd place, collecting a bronze medal. This is his third regional medal in two years, which really is a fantastic achievement. Reshad works hard in sessions and is also a member of the England Talent Squad. He has also qualified for the National Finals.

Ramandeep Mann (BC2 – 4th place)

One of the most consistent and accurate athletes, Ramandeep had a good tournament against some very tough opposition. Her decision making and execution was strong, however, coming up against England Lions athletes will always be tough. She was unlucky to lose her first three games.

However, following a change of balls, some honest self-evaluation and a healthy lunch, Ramandeep came back to win her final game 6-1, finishing the competition in 4th place.

Jamie Keat (BC3 – 5th place)

Our youngest athlete, aged 9 years old, attended his second London Regionals since joining PACE Boccia. He was unfortunate to lose his group games, however, there were many positives in his performance. Most notably, his 5-5 draw against the eventual winner, who beat him in a tense tie-break.

Jamie works hard and demonstrates a good understanding of the game. Supported by his coach and challenged to develop by team-mates, Jamie is certainly a great prospect for the future.

Congratulations to all PACE Boccia athletes, they all deserve their successes after the work they’ve put in over the last year.

Alex, Jagjit and Reshad will be representing PACE at the National Finals, in Sheffield. Stay tuned to the PACE website to find out how they get on!