- Who has claimed the mixed individual BC1 Paralympic crown?
- 2008:
POR - 2004:POR
- 2000:
IRL - 1996:POR
The Athletes
Introducing David Smith, the Paralympic gold medallist who’s got some good moves – both on and off the Boccia court
Double Paralympic Games gold-medal winner and all-round Boccia legend Nigel loves the game, but is partial to a curry too...
How it works: Boccia
Played on a long, narrow court, boccia is a sport - similar to bowls - that rewards accuracy, as competitors battle to beat each other by throwing their balls as close as possible to the target ball, called a jack.
What you need to know
Democracy, philosophy and the Olympics; those ancient Greeks came up with a lot of cool stuff. But perhaps one of their best inventions was an early version of boccia, which a bunch of Italians refined in the 16th century into the sport we know and love today.
Boccia can be played by men and women in teams, pairs or as individuals - making it perfect sports fodder whether you thrive on camaraderie or prefer to fly solo.
The boccia courts of Beijing were paved with gold for Great Britain's squad, as they romped to the top of the podium in the team event after a stunning victory over Portugal.
Portugal might be England's oldest ally, but they're no friend of Great Britain's boccia team. The nations have fought several bitter battles in team and individual events at the Paralympic Games, European Championships and World Championships over the years.
Boccia is played in 42 countries around the world, but the target looks the same whether it's pronounced Jack, Jacques or Jakob…
What to say: Boccia
If you're trying to blag it as a boccia expert, the first thing to get right is the name - pronounce it "botcha", not "bokkia".
Who's good: Boccia
Great Britain and Portugal know their onions when it comes to boccia, but Brazil and South Korea topped the medal table in Beijing with two golds each. We need to keep an eye out for them at the Paralympic Games London 2012.
Inside stories
GB name three more teams for London 2012
Boccia, judo and powerlifting competitors added to ParalympicsGB team
'My biggest rival is myself' - David Smith
GB's boccia star on the constant struggle between his head and his heart
Video
Upcoming events
5-7 May, Basketball Arena, Olympic Park
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