PETER and STEPHEN McGUIRE play boccia, a bowls-like sport specifically designed for wheelchair athletes. Stephen, at 27 the younger by two years, got involved first and recruited his brother when he needed a partner for a pairs competition. From Hamilton, they have won titles at British, European and world level.
“I first heard of boccia when I left school,” says Peter, “and I’ve been playing it for about seven years now. It’s specifically designed for people with disabilities like ours.
“I’ve got muscular dystrophy. My father was told I’d be dead when I was nine, but I haven’t deteriorated since I was 12.
“I love the challenge of taking on opponents. Stephen is technically better and I’ve got a tactical mind, so I think it’s a good combination.”
Stephen says, “I’ve always loved to play sport – hockey, pool, darts, bowls. To be honest, it has just been my life.
“I’ve been British champion six times, a European champion and a double world silver medallist. A Paralympic medal would fill my collection, and there would be no better place to do it than at a home Olympics, but I’m not counting my chickens.
“In Scotland we don’t have half as many boccia players as England, but what we’ve got is quality. And the enthusiasm of some of the young players is incredible.”
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