Sheffield’s Ponds Forge to host stage of 2020 World Para-swimming World Series

Sheffield’s Ponds Forge International Sports Centre is to host a stage of the 2020 World Para-Swimming World Series.

The world’s best para-swimmers will be competing in the steel city for the British Para-swimming International Meet – and it will also be the fourth stage of the World Series from Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 April.

Great Britain’s Alice Tai was the winner of the women’s individual title this year and will be no doubt be looking to repeat her success at the event ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.

The seven-stage series begins in Melbourne, Australia, in February before visiting Italy, Brazil, Sheffield, USA, Singapore and Germany.

Tracy Glassford, World Para-swimming Senior Manager, said: “The 2020 World Series will be the first to take place in a Paralympic Games year, offering swimmers from all over the world the chance to plan next season in advance and to compete in high-level events in preparation for Tokyo 2020.

“It will also give para-swimming fans the opportunity to start following the amazing athletes they will watch competing at the Paralympics.

Key for our swimmers

“The next season will also be the first in which the series return to the same countries that hosted them in the previous season.

“The World Series is now well established as a platform for new swimmers to come onto the international scene at the same time that it offers the world’s best athletes a more consistent competition calendar. 

“We take this opportunity to thank all local organising committees and share with them the success of the competition.”

The 2019 World Series saw more than 1,300 swimmers from 84 countries taking part. 

Chris Furber, British Para-swimming Performance Director, added: “The British Para-Swimming International Meet is one of our primary focuses between now and the Paralympic Games, so it is fantastic that this will once again incorporate a leg of the World Series. 

“Having world class, head-to-head racing opportunities is key for our swimmers as they look to firstly secure their place on the team, and then perform when it matters in Tokyo. 

“We look forward to welcoming international para-swimmers from around the world to Sheffield once again.”