The Paralympics classification system explained

The Paris 2024 Paralympics begin this week with the opening ceremony on Wednesday ( August 28 ) and the first day of competition on Thursday ( August 29 ) But how does the classification system work in para-sport and how are athletes’ classifications defined? The idea behind classifications is to ensure that athletes compete against opponents of similar or equal impairment.

There are 10 broad categories of impairment that a Paralympic athlete can be put into eight of them are a form of physical impairment, one for visual impairment and one for intellectual impairment.

Para athletics, field events Grade I - Athletes have severe impairments affecting all limbs and the trunk.

Para equestrian Grade I- Grade II- Grade III: Athletes with severe impairment of trunk and minimal impairment of arms or moderate impairment of the trunk, arms and legs.

Wheelchair fencing F51-58 is for athletes who perform seated throws and have an impairment.

S / SB / SM14 - Athletes have difficulties with regards to pattern recognition, sequencing and memory.

SB ' refers to breaststroke, while SM ’ refers to multi-swimming events.

SH1 athletes may use a pistol or a rifle.

SH2 athletes are unable to hold their rifle independently, so use a stand, but aim by themselves and control the rifle.