The boccia strong team Portugal showed confidence to dominate the podium again with their experienced athletes after claiming six medals at the 2004 Paralympics.

"Portugal is a strong team. We have some of the best players in the world and they have been working really hard the last four years. I hope we can win some medals here," said coach Helena Bastos after training on Thursday.

Portugal won two out of the seven gold medals on offer, as well as three silver and one bronze in Athens in 2004.

The reigning Paralympic champion and world No. 6 in BC1 Joao Paulo Fernandes will defend his Paralympic title in the competition.

The other three members of the Athens gold medal BC1 and BC2 Team, Cristina Goncalves, Antonio Marquesm and Fernando Ferreira will also compete.

"Boccia is a sport of precision and concentration. I just want the best from my players, but of course we also need a bit of luck, just like in any other sport," Bastos said.

Bastos also remained aware of potential rivals. "Spain, Hong Kong of China, Britain and also Canada, these are among the best teams in the world, but don't forget, surprises always occur in sport competitions."

Boccia is a ball-throwing competition, slated for Sept. 7-12 at the Beijing Paralympics. A match consists of four ends in the individuals and pairs competitions and of six ends in the team division. Each end continues until both teams have played all of their balls.

(Xinhua News Agency September 5, 2008)