Success at British Open Para Sport Championships 2025

Welsh Shooting – British Open Para Sport Championships 2025: Celebrating Excellence, Inclusion, and Growth

The fourth annual Welsh Shooting – British Open Para Sport Championships concluded at the Swansea Indoor Tennis Centre, wrapping up three exhilarating days of top-tier competition from 11–13 July. Hosted as part of the Disability Sport Wales Para Sport Festival, the event once again highlighted the power of inclusive sport—featuring Air Rifle, Air Pistol, and Visually Impaired (VI) disciplines—and is fast becoming a standout date on the UK para-sport calendar.

Record Numbers and Strong Competitive Spirit

This year marked a new milestone for the Championships, with an all-time high of 78 athlete starts across standing and prone air rifle events (R1–R5), pistol events (P1, P2), and the VI benchrest category. Athletes, coaches, and supporters from across the UK gathered in Swansea, creating a high-performance yet welcoming atmosphere that celebrated both elite competition and the spirit of para sport.

Friday’s training sessions gave athletes a chance to acclimatise to the unusually warm conditions—a factor that added an extra challenge to an already intense weekend.

Event Highlights and Results

Medal ceremonies followed each final and aggregate event, recognising outstanding performances and memorable moments throughout the weekend:

• Rifle: Strong displays in both standing (R1, R2, R4) and prone (R3, R5) events.

• Pistol: The P1 and P2 finals for men and women showcased remarkable composure and precision.

• VI Benchrest: Though it didn’t feature a traditional final, this event remained a highlight—drawing enthusiastic support from spectators and fellow athletes alike.

Full results and standings are available online.

New Leadership, Fresh Momentum

The 2025 Championships also marked the debut of Angela Whiles as Welsh Shooting’s new Development and Events Manager. Reflecting on her first event in the role, she said:

“It’s been truly inspiring to see athletes of all abilities come together on equal terms. In just four years, we’re seeing real progress—greater participation, stronger performances, and an incredible atmosphere built on respect and passion. I’m proud to be part of this journey and excited to help grow the Championships alongside Disability Sport Wales.”

Looking Forward: The Future of Para Shooting

Since its launch in 2022, the British Open Para Sport Championships have grown steadily in size, reach, and impact. As a cornerstone of the Disability Sport Wales Para Sport Festival, the event plays a vital role in raising awareness, increasing access, and driving participation in para shooting across the UK.

With enthusiasm continuing to grow among both disabled and non-disabled athletes, Welsh Shooting expects even higher participation in 2026—solidifying the event’s status as a leader in inclusive sport.

A True Celebration of Sport

The 2025 Championships offered a powerful reminder of what inclusive sport can achieve—breaking barriers, building community, and showcasing excellence. Backed by passionate leadership, strong partnerships, and a clear vision for growth, the future of para shooting in Wales and beyond is bright and full of promise.