Classification
What is Classification?
Classification in Para athletics is a process used to determine which athletes are eligible to compete in the sport and to group athletes for competition based on the extent of their impairments. The goal is to minimize the impact of impairments on performance, ensuring fair competition.
Sport-Specific Nature Of Classification
Classification is tailored to each sport because impairments affect performance differently depending on the sport. Therefore, an athlete may qualify for one sport but not for another.
Sport Classes
Athletes are grouped into 'Sport Classes' based on the degree of activity limitation caused by their impairments. This system is analogous to grouping athletes by age, gender, or weight categories.
Governance
Classification in various Para sports is regulated by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Germany, Athlete Classification Code and Standards, which provide the framework.
Pathway for classification of an athlete
To license an Athlete, you will need the following
Athlete’s profile in Sport Data Management Systems (SDMS)
- Copy of athlete’s latest valid passport
- Latest photo with plain background (not older than one year)
- IPC athlete eligibility agreement
- IPC athlete Medical diagnostic form (MDF) – for athletes with visual impairment (VI) and physical impairment (PI)eligibility agreement
- Supporting medical documentation includes but not restricted to: latest radiological scans, discharge summary (if applicable).
- Athlete epilepsy declaration form – only for shooting para sport athletes
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