GB Para Table Tennis Team Prepares for World Championships with Training Camp in France

The Great Britain Para Table Tennis team has announced a 12-athlete squad for the ITTF World Para Elite Yvelines in France from September 12-16, as a key preparation step before the World Para Table Tennis Championships in Thailand in November. Leading the squad are two experienced stars: Will Bayley, former world champion, and Rob Davies, European champion. Bayley, a Paralympic gold medalist, has been the backbone of the GB team for years. Davies, competing in class 1 for the most severely disabled athletes, is always a formidable opponent internationally. Both aim high at the France event to solidify their rankings and seeding for the upcoming World Championships. Alongside these veterans, the coaching staff has given opportunities to young talents like Bly Twomey (class 7) and Billy Shilton (class 8). Twomey, only 14, has impressed at international youth events. This mix reflects Table Tennis England's long-term development strategy, leveraging veteran strength while nurturing the next generation. The ITTF World Para Elite Yvelines is one of the highest-level events in the world para table tennis system, gathering top players from strong nations like Germany, France, Poland, and China. For GB, it is not only a sparring opportunity but also the final chance to test form before the World Championships. Interim Performance Director Shaun Marples said: 'We had a great summer training camp in Sheffield, where the whole team focused on improving tactics and fitness. The tournament in France will be a real test of readiness. It is the perfect stepping stone before heading to Thailand.' The 12-athlete squad includes: Will Bayley (class 7), Rob Davies (class 1), Jack Hunter-Spivey (class 5), Joshua Stacey (class 9), Martin Perry (class 6), Paul Karabardak (class 4), Aaron McKibbin (class 3), Billy Shilton (class 8), Megan Shackleton (class 4 women), Bly Twomey (class 7 women), Felicity Pickard (class 5 women), and Grace Williams (class 2 women). These names were carefully selected based on performance and recent progress. The immediate goal in France is to improve world rankings and secure better seeding for the World Championships in November. Higher seeding helps avoid strong opponents early, increasing chances of deep runs. This is crucial for less experienced athletes like Twomey or Stacey facing top Asian players in Thailand. However, analysts point out potential risks. The GB team relies heavily on two pillars: Bayley and Davies. If either suffers an injury or form slump, the team's medal prospects would be significantly affected. The lack of truly outstanding young players in high classes (1-3) is also a weakness. Marples acknowledged: 'We are working hard on squad depth, but at this moment, we focus on quality over quantity. Every athlete on this list can surprise.' A positive sign is the successful summer training camp in Sheffield, with high-level specialized exercises and satisfaction from the coaching staff. Athletes underwent physical, technical, and psychological tests. Nutritionists and physiotherapists helped minimize injury risks – a constant concern for para athletes. Medical staff have been strengthened to accompany the team from France to Thailand. Regarding opponents, the world para table tennis scene is witnessing a strong rise from Asian countries like China, South Korea, and Japan. China is particularly strong in lower classes (1-5), where Rob Davies and Paul Karabardak will face skilled and tactical opponents. Germany and France are also powerhouses with athletes across many classes. This makes the competition in Thailand fiercer than ever. Despite this, the GB team's morale is high. The blend of Bayley's and Davies' experience with young talents' enthusiasm creates a balanced squad. If they capitalize on the France opportunity, GB can aim for top 3 world finishes in some classes, even gold medals in their strong classes like men's class 7 (Bayley) and men's class 1 (Davies). The 2026 World Para Table Tennis Championships will be held in Bangkok, Thailand, expected to gather over 300 athletes from 50+ countries. This event is crucial in the roadmap to the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. Therefore, each tournament like the ITTF World Para Elite Yvelines has strategic significance – not only for points but also for mental preparation and overall readiness. The GB team will depart for France in early September, followed by a short training stint before moving to Thailand. Fans of para table tennis in Vietnam and Asia can expect impressive performances from Will Bayley and his teammates as they enter the final sprint of the season.