Inspired by the Olympics, Hamilton’s Steph McGuire is determined to come back from Tokyo 2020 with a Paralympics medal – and admits he doesn’t mind what colour it is.
McGuire has targeted a Paralympics medal in boccia since he started out in the sport 17 years ago.
It’s the only thing he hasn’t won, having been World and European champion, with 13 British titles under his belt.
And the 37-year-old, who celebrated his birthday last week, says he hopes the momentum from the European Championships and Olympics carries on into the Paralympics, as he goes in search of BC4 glory, with the first match scheduled for August 28.
“I’ve been glued to the Olympics and in particular I’ve been watching the gymnastics, because that’s the arena that boccia will be in, and it looks phenomenal,” said McGuire.
“It’s a brand-new facility and I can’t wait to get there.
“The Olympics was inspiring, it came with the momentum of the European Championships football, and now it’s our turn, so I really can’t wait.
“To me it would mean everything to get that Paralympics medal, and also to give something back to Paralympics GB and all the people who have helped me for the last 17 years.
“To get that elusive medal would be incredible, and fingers crossed – I don’t really mind what colour we can get there.”
It has been a long journey to get to Tokyo 2020, with more than a year spent in lockdown, and competitions cancelled, but Steph says that will all evaporate as soon as he’s back in action.
Steph, who is captain of BC4 pairs, which also includes Evie Edwards and Louis Saunders, said: “It has been my strangest cycle, five years – we’re not used to that, and the fact that we’ve not had a competitive match for nearly two years.
“I think it’s 20 months, but everyone’s in the same boat, so there are no excuses.
“We’re looking forward to going out there and doing what we can do.
“Once I’m on the boccia court I’m quite happy, it’s what is familiar.
“I’ve been doing it for 17 years, so that’s the key – just get there, as healthy as you can, and I’m pretty sure we’ll be competitive.”
Steph added: “I’m looking forward to it, but it’s coming very fast.
“I’ve never been to Japan, so I’m really looking forward to it.
“I do feel that we’ve certainly got an opportunity but I’m not actually feeling nervous.
“I was probably more nervous about London and Rio – maybe it’s an experience thing.”
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