Ireland sent a strong 8-athlete team to the IBSA World Games that took place in Birmingham from 18th – 27th August. The team represented the country with pride on the world stage, putting in strong performances against tough competition.
After a tough start, the team found their stride on the second day of competition and began to find the winning formula. Over the course of the competition there was some superb tennis on display across the four categories of B1 to B4/5.
The team had two athletes take part in bronze medal finals with Riya Deveraux and Marguerite Quinn putting it up to their opponents. Riya was first to take to the court, losing out in a tiebreak of 11-9 to the current World Champion, Rosie Pybus.
Marguerite was next on the court for the team with a strong performance against Sarah Fortesque. It was the first major tournament for both players, and coming away as fourth in the World in their categories is a huge achievement.
No easy scores were given away in either game and it was a credit to both players that they continued to battle hard with their opponents right to the last point.
The whole team represented the country extremely well on the world stage and were also a hit off the court with the staff, volunteers and other participants.
There is little rest for a couple of the team members as they head to Poland for the IBTA World Championships. We wish them all the best in the upcoming Championships and a huge well done for all that the group achieved in Birmingham.
If you are interested in getting involved in tennis, please contact rosie@visionsports.ie for further information on training and clubs in your area.