Q&A with David Smith MBE
/He is one of Britain’s most decorated boccia players ever having won four medals from across three Paralympics. It is an honour he shares with Nigel Murray who retired from the sport after the Rio Paralympics in 2016.
He is triple crown winner which means he is currently Paralympic, World and European Champion.
We caught up with him before he heads off to Tokyo.
David, how was lockdown for you?
Lockdown has sharpened my focus. It’s given me a chance to reflect on my personal life and reset my goals. I have managed to improve my fitness and nutrition beyond recognition. I have met some fantastic people virtually and I am able to give back to the community in a small way by working part-time as a lifestyle coach.
How does it feel to be back playing again with the squad?
It was like I’d never been away! I found my old competitive spark plus a bit more!
Going into Tokyo 2020 as Paralympic, World and European Champion, does that add pressure? How do you cope?
It doesn’t add pressure for me personally because I’ve been reigning Champion at big tournaments before. But I suppose it does increase other people’s expectations.
David Smith MBE in training at St George’s Park. Credit: @GettyImages
You like playing to a crowd don’t you? How will it feel in Tokyo do you think?
I do prefer a crowd because it just makes the sport more enjoyable but I’m used to creating my own atmosphere at the numerous competitions we have without crowds.
What would a medal mean to you in this Games cycle which has seen so much disruption?
It would be fantastic after five years of hard work and it may also help encourage more people into this sport.
Who are the Ones to Watch within the British squad?
I think we have a strong squad across all the categories. Steph McGuire is a former World Champion and Jamie McCowan is a former European Champion. If we all peak at the same time, it could be a significant medal haul for the squad.
What are you looking forward to most about Tokyo?
I think I’m most looking forward to putting on a show for the world. This pandemic has been tough on so many people. However, if me and my rivals can play high intensity, entertaining Boccia, I hope we can inspire the next generation to start playing and dream of a brighter future.
Who inspires you?
The one person that inspires me the most is my Grandad. Everything I have achieved happened after he passed away in 2005. He was the first person to understand me and many of my life choices are inspired by his memory.
David Smith in action
Read more about the GB Boccia Squad. If you have been inspired to play boccia, take a look at our Athlete Recruitment.
