Welsh Paralympic Veterans Poised for Encore Performances at Paris 2024
As the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games approach, veteran Welsh table tennis stars Paul Karabardak and Rob Davies are set to make their mark on the international stage once again. The duo will be competing in their eighth Games combined, a remarkable feat in itself.
Karabardak Reflects on Tokyo Success
Karabardak, a 38-year-old from Swansea, is gearing up for his fifth Paralympic appearance. After a stunning performance at the Tokyo 2020 Games, where he claimed bronze in the Men’s Class 6 Singles and silver in the Men’s Class 6-7 Team event, the Welsh athlete is brimming with confidence. “To finally get those medals and play so well, it was one of the best performances of my career. It was just amazing and made me feel so happy,” he reflected.
Davies Eager to Redeem Missed Tokyo Opportunity
Meanwhile, Davies, a 39-year-old from Brecon, returns to the Paralympics with a point to prove. The gold medalist in the Men’s Class 1 Singles at the Rio 2016 Games, Davies was forced to miss the Tokyo edition due to a shoulder injury. “Obviously I was gutted about not going to Tokyo but that’s forgotten about now and I’m just looking forward to getting to Paris and seeing what I can do there,” he said. Davies will compete in the same singles class, as well as the Men’s Class 4 Doubles with teammate Tom Matthews.
Duo’s Pursuit of Glory in Paris
Both athletes have their sights set on success in the French capital. Karabardak, alongside partner Billy Shilton, is determined to replicate their 2022 World Championships triumph in the Class 14 Doubles. “I think me and Billy believe in each other, and we know we can rely on each other. We’re world champions and one of the best teams in the world, and I think we have a really great chance to do well in the doubles.”
For Davies, the lure of the big stage is a powerful motivator. “I do like the big occasions, and I like to think that I can up my game for it. I feel I’m going in the right direction, and I just want to make the most of it and enjoy it every time I’m on the table.”
With their wealth of experience and passion for the sport, Karabardak and Davies are poised to captivate table tennis fans once again at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The Welsh duo’s pursuit of glory will undoubtedly be a highlight of the competition.
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