The visually impaired T13 sprint star, who also competes in able bodied competition, will be a strong favourite for victory in New Zealand and is set to compete in both the 100 and 200 metre events in Christchurch.

Smyth, who had to pull out of the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi because of injury, will be joined in New Zealand by another Beijing Paralympic gold medallist in the form of Ballymena-born T37 runner Michael McKillop, who was also named today by the Paralympic Council of Ireland (PCI).

McKillop will be competing in his beloved 800m in Christchurch - the event in which he won gold in Beijing - as well as the 1500m.

F51 discus and club thrower Catherine Wayland and F11 shot putter Nadine Lattimore will be another two Irish athletes expected to be strong medal contenders in New Zealand as will F34 Class javelin and shot putter Ray O’Dwyer and F57 discuss thrower Orla Barry.

F52 shot and discus thrower Rosemary Tallon, F11 shot putter Ailish Dunne and F52 discuss star Garrett Culliton complete the Irish team heading to Christchurch.

Team manager James Nolan said: "I have been working with the athletes since my appointment as head of Paralympic Athletics last April and it goes without saying that the Championships will be a tough event for our athletes.

"They are training and preparing well and I am confident they will perform to their abilities come January 21."

PCI chief executive Liam Harbison added: "This is a very significant step for our athletics team on the road to London 2012.

"The team has a blend of experience and new blood and this will be a great experience for the new athletes.

"I wish James Nolan and his team every success in their continuing preparation over the winter months and for the Championships in January."

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