Para-athletics classification

Para-athletics classification at the Paralympic Games is the basis for determining who can compete in specific athletic sports, and within which class. Classification is handled by the International Paralympic Committee, with classification spelled in the IPC Athletics Classification Handbook. People with physical, vision and intellectual disabilities are eligible to compete in this sport. The classification for this sport was created during the 1940s and for much of its early history was a medical condition based classification system. The classification system has subsequently become a functional mobility based one, and is moving towards an evidence-based classification system.

Para-athletics classification at the Paralympic Games is the basis for determining who can compete in specific athletic sports, and within which class. It is used for the purposes of establishing fair competition. The general rules for para-athletics are based on rules intended for able-bodied competitors. The blind classifications are based on medical classification, not functional classification.

Visualisation of functional vision for a T11 classified competitor

Visualisation of functional vision for a T12 classified competitor

Visualisation of functional vision for a T13 classified competitor

Visualisation of classification for a T20 classified competitor

Disability type for some T42 classified competitors

Disability type for some T43 classified competitors

Disability type for some T43 classified competitors

Disability type for some T44 classified competitors

Functional mobility range for a T51 classified competitor

Functional mobility range for a T52 classified competitor

Beyond the level of vision impairment, research done at the Central Institute on Employment Abilities of the Handicapped in Moscow has found differences in functional capabilities based on differences in visual acuity. This plays a significant role in athletics races.

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