Wheelchair Racing
Wheelchair Racing
Basics
At Paralympic level there are wheelchair racing track events: 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 5000m, 10000m and relay races 4x100m and 4x400m. There is also the marathon
Wheelchair racing has grown as a sport due to advances in technology allowing racing wheelchairs to become lighter and the sport has become well known due to house hold names including Tanni Grey Thompson
Who can participate?
Athletics uses a classification system which divides athletes with Cerebral Palsy those with spinal injuries, dwarfs, visually impaired and learning disabilities. Athletes with similar disabilities compete against each other and can be grouped together if necessary. Those with severe lower limb impairment are classified as ‘seated athletes’ and therefore can wheelchair race.
Where in the world?
As the sport has progressed in stature wheelchair racing has become more popular worldwide. Countries such as USA, Australia, Switzerland, France and GB all have men and women fighting for Paralympic gold medals.
What’s near me?
There are few disability specific athletics clubs in the UK, however, joining your local athletics club is a great start. For more information on how to get involved in Wheelchair Racing please get in contact with the British Wheelchair Racing Association using the link below.
Further information
British Wheelchair Racing Association
