Disabled table tennis players prepare for first 2014 Grand Prix event
On 5 and 6 July, the first of the Table Tennis England Grand Prix Series will be held at the Wood Green Academy in Wednesbury. More than 60 disabled players will take part in the event, including some of the best in the country.
New and established players will descend on the West Midlands for the first of two grand prix events of the year. The events offer great opportunities for disabled players to develop skills in competition and to compete in both class, open and doubles competitions throughout the weekend.
Experienced players Shaun Newcomb (Class 4) and Peter Cameron (Class 7) are among the competitors looking for success at this year’s Championship.
Steve McFadyen, Clubs and Disability Officer for Table Tennis England, said:
“Events like this Grand Prix confirm our belief that table tennis is a great sport that can be played by anyone and demonstrates the high standard of athletes competing across the country. We are delighted to support this event and we wish the players all the best for what we hope can be a really successful competition.”
The event is organised by Disability Sport Events, an English Federation of Disability Sport programme. Disability Sport Events delivers a range of participation opportunities for disabled people to enjoy being active at all levels. Over the years, the programme has been successful in building many partnerships across the sports sector. This has included with National Governing Bodies of sport, to support their events programmes to be more inclusive.
Jannine Walker, National Events Manager for the English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS), said:
“Working alongside Table Tennis England for many years, we have been able to deliver a top class event for disabled players. The event is just one example of the opportunities EFDS delivers or promotes to ensure disabled people can enjoy being active for life. We wish all the players the best of luck for the championships.”
The event is free for spectators and will run as follows:
10:30 and 17:30 on Saturday 5 July
09:30 and 16:00 on Sunday 6 July
