A Paralympics to savour for Murray and Sehmi

In his final tournament before retiring, world boccia number one Murray did at least have the consolation of a bronze from the team event.

However, for wheelchair rugby star Sehmi, defeats in the group games to Japan and the USA left Great Britain out of the medal race and they were eventually forced to settle for fifth place.

But, despite failing to deliver on their pre-tournament aim of a top-three finish, Sehmi says the whole Paralympic experience will stay with him forever.

“We were hopeful of a medal and it was really disappointing - it’s hard to put into words as it’s still raw,” admitted Sehmi.

“We worked really hard but it wasn’t meant to be for us.

“On a personal level I didn’t get the minutes on the floor that I would have liked but that’s part of be in a team.

“But overall it was an amazing experience. The crowd noise was overwhelming, we just didn’t expect it to be so loud.”

That overwhelming support continued on into Monday’s Heroes Parade through the streets of London and once again Sehmi was left awestruck by the measure of support for the nation’s sporting stars.

“It was unbelievable, there just seemed to be millions there, a sea of people. It was a humbling experience as an athlete and I can’t thank the people enough.”

Murray, meanwhile, brought the curtain down on his Paralympic career in front of London 2012 chairman Lord Coe.

The 48-year-old, top seed in the individual BC2 tournament, suffered a shock quarter-final exit but won a play-off against Sohn Jeong-Min of Korea 7-2 on the final day of action to take seventh place overall.

“I didn’t actually see him [Lord Coe] but someone mentioned that he’d come in, so I thought I better put on a bit of show for him, rather than go out with a bit of a whimper,” said Murray.

After the euphoria of the Paralympics, both athletes will now take a step back from their respective sports.

But while for Murray the break will be permanent, Sehmi’s short sabbatical will be all about recharging batteries ahead of fresh challenges, including a crack at Rio in 2016.

“I’m taking a few weeks to myself to recover and switch off from rugby,” said Sehmi.

“A lot of people sacrifice so much for me so this is a chance for me to give something back to my friends, family and loved ones and just savour the experience.”