CP3 (classification)

CP3 is a disability sport classification specific to cerebral palsy. In many sports, it is grouped inside other classifications to allow people with cerebral palsy to compete against people with other different disabilities but the same level of functionality. Compared higher number CP classes, they have increased issues with head movement and trunk function. They tend to use wheelchairs on a daily basis though they may be ambulant with the use of assistive devices.

Sportspeople in this class are eligible to participate in a number of sports on the elite level. They include athletics, cycling, skiing, swimming, wheelchair tennis, archery, wheelchair fencing, wheelchair curling, table tennis, shooting, sailing, powerlifting, para-equestrian, rowing and archery. In some of these sports, different classification systems or names for CP3 are used. Because CP3 sportspeople use wheelchairs in most of the classes they compete in, they need to attend classification events while in their wheelchair to insure they do not get classed in an ambulatory class.

Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association (CP-ISRA) defined this class in January 2005 as, "Quadriplegic (Tetraplegic), Severe Hemiplegic - Moderate (asymmetric or symmetric) quadriplegic or severe hemiplegic in a wheelchair with almost full functional strength in dominant upper extremity. It is rare for an athlete with athetosis to be included within this class unless he/she presents with a predominantly hemiplegic or triplegic profile with almost full function in the dominant upper limb. Can propel a wheelchair independently."

On a daily basis, CP3 sportspeople are likely to use a wheelchair. Some may be ambulant with the use of assistive devices. While they may have good trunk control, they may have some issues with strong forward movements of their torso. While CP2, CP3 and CP6 have similar issues with Athetoid or Ataxic, CP6 competitors have "flight" while they are ambulant in that it is possible for both feet to not be touching the ground while walking. CP2 and CP3 are unable to do this. Head movement and trunk function differentiate this class from CP4. Lack of symmetry in arm movement are another major difference between the two classes, with CP3 competitors having less symmetry.

CP3 competitors compete in athletic events in the T33/F33 classes. In some cases, CP3 athletes may be classified as F53, F54, or F55. Events that may be on the program for CP3 competitors include the club, discus throw, shot put and javelin. While F33/F53/F54/F55 throwers may be able to walk with assistance, competitors throw from a fixed seated position.

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