Claire Taggart
Boccia
Claire is the current World #1 Boccia Player, one of the world’s most precise and skilful sports, yet so unknown. Related to bowls it is specifically designed for athletes with a disability affecting physical function.
From Larne, Northern Ireland, Claire’s life changed drastically at the age of 17, as she started experiencing mobility issues. After years of testing, when Claire was 19, she was diagnosed with dystonia, a neurological condition characterised by involuntary muscle contraptions and spasms. Before her diagnosis, Claire participated in wheelchair basketball and rugby recreationally. Unfortunately, due to the progressive nature of dystonia, her condition made it increasingly harder to keep up with the sports, where she was then introduced to boccia.
In 2014 Claire was spotted at the UK Championships by Paralympics GB coaches who invited her to a Talent Event in Sheffield in 2015, where she subsequently joined the World Class Programme at Boccia UK. Claire represented Paralympics GB at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Paralympics but was unfortunate to not place within the medals. Yet the 4-year period did see her climb from #49 to #10 in the World. Now going from strength to strength, Claire hasn’t placed outside of the medals since the start of 2022, including winning the World Championships in Rio at the end of 2022. Claire retained her British Title in November 2023, setting her up for an exciting run at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
Not only is Claire a champion on her field, but also off. Claire is incredibly passionate about making the world a better place for future generations of disabled people. She sits on the British Paralympic Association Athlete Commission, where she and fellow athletes provide feedback and suggestions to improve athlete experiences across all sports.
ENQUIRIES: If you are interested in partnering with OR booking Claire for a speaking engagement please email callum@athletemedia.co.uk or call 07952 304340.