at AMTZ in Visakhapatnam | bringing together over 100 para-athletes from 21 States across the country
The 9th Boccia National Championship concluded with great success at Andhra Pradesh Medtech Zone (AMTZ) in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. This landmark event was the city’s first-ever national-level parasports competition, attracting over 100 para-athletes from 21 states across India.
The participants, including individuals with cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, exhibited remarkable talent and determination throughout the quarterfinals, semifinals, and doubles matches. The top-performing athletes from the event will now advance to represent India in international competitions.
Boccia, a precision ball sport designed for athletes with severe physical disabilities, tests strategy, accuracy, and focus. Players aim to position leather balls as close as possible to a white target ball, called the jack.
Ravinder Kumar, a 21-year-old athlete from Bikaner, Rajasthan, who has cerebral palsy, shared his inspiring journey. “I was bedridden until the age of 19 with no interest in life. In 2022, I was introduced to boccia in Delhi. After just two days of practice, I participated in the National Championship and eventually won a bronze medal. Now, I have won a gold medal here at AMTZ.”
AMTZ has been actively supporting the Boccia Federation, empowering para-athletes to excel on both national and international platforms. Dr. Jitendra Sharma, Managing Director and CEO of AMTZ, emphasized the importance of the championship, stating, “Boccia is a powerful sport for individuals with severe disabilities, promoting physical health and boosting quality of life. Our commitment at AMTZ is not only to save lives but also to empower people with disabilities.”
The support for inclusivity extends beyond boccia. AMTZ is also championing other parasports, such as wheelchair basketball, with a major tournament scheduled for next month at the Medtech Zone.
The event succeed by the support of Ashok Bedi, Chairman -BSFI, Jaspreet Singh Dhaliwal, President BSFI, Shaminder Singh, Secratary General, Nafeesa, Chairperson PoSH Committee and President, Rajasthan, Jagroop Singh etc.
