On 7^th December, PACE had the privilege of meeting His Majesty The King at Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre. PACE Founder, Krishna Birdy, Sunil, PACE Head Coach, Alex, PACE Boccia Coach and Reshad, one of the PACE International Boccia athletes were given the opportunity to showcase the incredible work PACE does plus demonstrate Boccia for The King, who even held one of our Boccia balls.

PACE was invited to meet His Majesty because it had received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest honour a charity can receive in the UK, recognizing outstanding contributions to volunteering and community service. PACE, which uses the power of sport to transform the lives of disabled people, was thrilled to receive this prestigious award in 2021.

Krishna and the PACE representatives were greeted by Richard Kornicki, the Ealing Deputy Lieutenant to the King, who broke the exciting news that The King would be arriving soon. The atmosphere was electric, as the group shared stories of the charity’s work and the transformative power of sport, how it has helped to break the cycle of poverty and disadvantage and its incredible volunteers who are dedicated to making a difference.

King Charles was visibly moved and impressed by the group’s passion and commitment. He asked thoughtful questions, about the Boccia equipment used and also Alex and Reshad’s wheelchair capabilities.

As the meeting came to a close, King Charles expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the group on their Queen’s Award. He praised their dedication and commitment to making a difference and expressed his admiration for the impact that they were having on the lives of young people.

Well done to all PACE supporters, another royal seal of approval for all your outstanding work!