Meet Paralympian David Smith

Britain's most decorated boccia player, David Smith OBE, joined us at 1pm on Friday 4th July at our latest 'Meet the Paralympian' event. The event was a rare opportunity to hear directly from the 3-time Paralympic Champion, as he shared the story behind his incredible accomplishments.

David’s Journey

David’s boccia journey began when he was just 6 years old when his school took part in a tournament at the NPHT's home, Stoke Mandeville - the birthplace of the Paralympics. By 14 he’d become the youngest ever British boccia champion, by 18 a double world champion, and just before starting university he claimed his first Paralympic gold.

Over five Paralympic Games, he’s medalled in four of them, winning team gold in Beijing 2008, individual silver and team bronze in London 2012, individual gold in Rio 2016, and individual gold in Tokyo 2020.

Diagnosed with cerebral palsy aged 1, David has continued to contribute to the record books. With over 26yrs in the sport, he’s now the most decorated boccia player of all time and was awarded an OBE for his services to the sport in 2022.

This event has passed

This event welcomed adults, school children from KS4 upwards, as well as universities and businesses.

We’re delighted that David could join us for this unique online session, empowering attendees to grab a hold of their own success.

It was a chance to hear from one of Britain’s most remarkable athletes and pose those burning questions!

(This event was supported by a BSL interpreter. For further information, or for access queries, please email [email protected])