HomeNewsUnderstanding Paralympic Classification: What the Letters and Numbers Mean

Understanding Paralympic Classification: What the Letters and Numbers Mean

Demystifying Paralympic Classification

The Paralympic Games use a classification system to ensure fair competition by grouping athletes based on how their impairment affects their sport performance. This system is often represented by letters and numbers, such as T45, F11, or S3, which can be confusing to those unfamiliar with the rules.

The letters indicate the sport, like “S” for swimming or “T” for track events, while the numbers signify the level or type of impairment. For example, in swimming, a class labeled “S14” involves athletes with an intellectual impairment, with lower numbers indicating more severe impairments.

Types of Impairments and Classifications

Paralympic athletes fall into one of ten impairment types, which include physical, vision, and intellectual impairments. Different sports have specific requirements for classification, and not all sports are open to all impairment types. 

For instance, blind football is restricted to those with visual impairments, while swimming is open to all types.

The Classification Process

Athletes undergo a classification process that includes medical assessments, technical tests, and sport-specific evaluations. This ensures they are placed in the appropriate class. 

However, classifications can change over time, and athletes or officials can appeal or challenge decisions.

Source abc.net

RELATED ARTICLES

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Membership Plan

Free Membership

$0 AUD /month

Basic Membership

$40 AUD /month

Premium Membership

$100 AUD /month

Elite Membership

$400 AUD /month

CATEGORIES

Most Popular

Recent Comments