Forty-six players braved a Christchurch winter to compete in the New Zealand Boccia Nationals, at Pioneer Stadium. Over the four days spectators rugged up and players put on multiple layers of clothing to strut their stuff. The Aussies were there too and everyone had to admit that they were a friendly bunch.

The accommodation preference for most Aucklanders was the YMCA who competed with the Aussies for the “Trans Tasman bathroom dash,” every morning. As usual the YMCA was a great place to stay, with its shared accommodation, very accessible bathroom/ shower and nourishing food.

On the courts the players competed in up to five games per day. Some may say that’s a tough call, but a full days play is wonderful preparation for international competition.

The Beijing bound Paralympians looked in good touch with Maurice Toon (Gold), Liam Sanders (Silver) and Jeremy Morriss (Bronze) finishing 1-2-3 in the BC1/2 class. Greig Jackson (Gold), Henk Dijkstra (Silver), and Mandy Slade (Bronze) in the BC3 class. Both the Team and the Pair have a strong chance for a medal in China.

Check out the photos from the Nationals

The above players plus Kerri Bonner made up the New Zealand throwing team and BC3 pairs, who trounced the Aussies to retain the Trans Tasman Trophy.

Northland took out the Kiwi class with Michelle Batchelor (Gold) Kimberley McLean (Silver) and Scott Burdett (Bronze)

The Boccia Paralympic coaches and assistants provided a bit of light relief when they took on their Aussie counterparts, toward the end of the tournament. By all accounts Dave, Luke and Matt played reasonably well –for abled bodied competitors!!!- to once again defeat the Aussies.