BT PWC 2012: Lord Coe expects records to tumble at Paralympic World Cup

By Sportsbeat staff

LONDON 2012 chairman Sebastian Coe has urged the British public to turn out in force for this year's BT Paralympic World Cup to get a sneak preview of the Games this summer.

BLADE RUNNER: South African Oscar Pistorius, pictured in action at the BT Paralympic World Cup

Global Paralympic stars such as South Africa's ‘Blade Runner' Oscar Pistorius will descend on Manchester between May 22-26, just under 100 days before the London 2012 Paralympics.

Athletics, wheelchair basketball, seven-a-side football and boccia are the sports being showcased In the largest annual international multi-sport competition in elite disability sport.

And Coe believes this year's Paralympic World Cup will break new ground.

"The BT Paralympic World Cup has always been a fantastic event, but just seeing who's involved this time around, it's clear this is going to be one to remember," he said.

"The whole nation is gearing up for one of the most memorable sporting summers in history and this is a fantastic taster for what is sure to be a special time for Paralympic sport in this country.

"For the competing athletes, the event is a fantastic opportunity to test themselves against truly world-class opposition, many of whom they'll be competing against for podium places this summer.

"And for those watching, it'll be a fantastic occasion and a chance to see to plenty of stars of the present and future.

"Many present may never have watched Paralympic sport live and I'm sure that all those there, and those who watch by other means, will be in awe with the skill, talent and determination on show."

And Coe believes there will be plenty of stand-out performances with London 2012 just around the corner.

He added: "With the London Paralympic Games being less than 100 days away, every minute is of paramount importance to the athletes, so I expect there will be some fantastic performances in Manchester."

Meanwhile, Great Britain's boccia international match will now be against the Czech Republic following the withdrawal of the Brazilian pair.

Duncan Tunbridge, GB Boccia Operations Manager said: "As Paralympic Bronze medallists from 2008 the Czech Republic will provide a stern test for the BC4 pair and will provide them with invaluable competitive experience in front of a home crowd ahead of London 2012.

"Following the success of the other classifications at the Test Event, this is an opportunity for the BC4's to demonstrate that they too are firmly on track for success in the summer."

Tickets for the BT Paralympic World Cup are now on sale. For more information visit: www.btparalympicworldcup.com