Four Canadians Advance to Quarter-finals at Boccia World Open at Defi Sportif AlterGo
Bussiere finished pool play with a strong 4-2 win against Maria Ruiz, an experienced ramp player from Argentina. “It was a very close match but I dominated it by staying calm and keeping my game focused. I took one point in every end, but in the last one she also took two points since we both had balls touching the jack”.
Adam Dukovich (Ottawa, ON) completed the day with one win and one loss. “I had two good games, although I actually feel I played better in the game I lost. I have a good feeling about tomorrow” said Dukovich.
The remaining Canadian athletes did not advance despite solid performances. Montreal athlete Iulian Ciobanu’s tournament ended with a tough overtime loss to Samuel Andrejcik of Slovakia, who is currently ranked 11th in the world. Ciobanu played a strong game but ultimately lost on the final ball to finish out of the playoffs.
Coach Kristin Dorrance also appreciated the opportunity to learn in her first international event at home. “I am very pleased with what I am seeing and I am extremely happy about the success of the athletes. As this is my first international event as a coach I am enjoying the experience and learning a lot from my fellow coaches.”
The medal rounds take place on Saturday, April 30th at Maurice Richard Arena
The domestic invitational component of the Defi Sportif also started on Friday, with athletes from across Canada and the United States competing until Sunday, May 1st. Complete results for the domestic competition can be found online at www.defisportif.ca.
The competition can be watched online here: http://tvgo.ca/defi/#defi
Boccia Canada gratefully acknowledges the support of the Government of Canada.