Introduction
Classification is a defining feature of wheelchair sport establishing who can and who cannot take part. WheelPower endorses the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) rules and endeavours to work with the British Paralympic Association (BPA) in adhering to them.
Classification is a specific responsibility of each sport that includes disability sport on their programme.
The contact can be an International Sports Federation (ISF) or a National Governing Body of Sport (NGB).
WheelPower, when relevant, may contact a specific sport for information on classification and where an athlete may be classified.
The majority of WheelPower events are multi-sport for those with physical impairment (wheelchair user and/or ambulant). Instead of classification WheelPower uses an ‘age group’ system:
Our age groups are for:
- Primary School Age
- Junior/High School Age
- Adults
If appropriate participants are advised as to their likely classification for their impairment or condition. They can be signposted to the relevant NGB for further involvement or advice. WheelPower will signpost sporting opportunities for those who fail to meet minimum impairment requirement for classification.
In all sports specific competitions classification is mandatory and IPC rules are enforced. Entrants who are not yet classified can compete as guests when the rules allow.
With a wealth of knowledge and experience in spinal cord injury and related disability, impairment and classification matters, WheelPower can provide guidance to individuals and organisations as requested.
For Information
ISF’s are responsible for the classification of their sport for World Championships/Regional Games/International Events and, if relevant, Paralympic Sports. Athletes participating must have an international classification prior to competing.
NGB’s are responsible for classification for national competition and participants must have a national classification prior to competing.
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) is responsible for Paralympic Games, (Summer and Winter). The IPC decide which sports will be on the programme and all sports participation must comply with the IPC Classification Code.
