A young Pembrokeshire sportsman is officially number one in the world.
Jacob Thomas has been ranked top player in the Boccia BC3 rankings by the sport’s international governing body, BISfed .
The 20 year-old from Bethesda, who represented Britain at the London Paralympics, has now set his sights on Rio.
Councillor Elwyn Morse, Cabinet Member for Sport and Leisure congratulated Jacob on his no 1 ranking.
“Jacob has worked so hard at his sport over so many years and he thoroughly deserves this honour,” he said.
“We wish him all the best for Rio and for future sporting competitions.”
Angela Miles, Disability Development Officer for Sport Pembrokeshire – Pembrokeshire County Council’s sports development service – said she was thrilled for Jacob.
“He’s an outstanding sportsman and has huge support from his family and the local community,” she said.
Jacob is the current British and Welsh BC3 Boccia Champion.
He has been playing the sport for 11 years and was first picked for the GB elite squad in 2011 since when he has represented Britain at many international competitions.
He trains between eight and 10 hours a week at Haverfordwest Leisure Centre, as well as taking part in regular weekend training camps with the GB squad.
Based on boules, boccia was originally developed for people with cerebral palsy but is now played by people of all abilities and disabilities.
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