Fencing

Originally devised at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, competitive wheelchair fencing was first introduced in 1953 and has been a Paralympic sport since the first Games in Rome in 1960.

Unlike able-bodied fencing, wheelchair fencing is static: the fencers are clamped to the piste, a metal frame, beyond this, the sport is largely similar to its able-bodied counterpart.

Wheelchair Fencers are classified according to their level of ability.
Class A is for athletes with full trunk movement and good balance
Class B is for athletes with no leg movement and impaired trunk and balance functions
Class C is for athletes with a disability in all four limbs

Competition comprises individual and team events in foil, epee and sabre for men and individual and team events in foil and epee for women.

Further information

British Disabled Fencing Association

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