About Para Classification

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2023/24 Classification Calendar

LocationClassification DatesObservation DatesPanelsSchedule
Landgraaf, NED28 - 29 November 202330 November 20232Schedule (version 20/11/23)
Galaxy Ski Resort, CHNCancelledCancelled--

 

This is a brief overview of classification in the sport and is in no way legally binding. In case of any discrepancies, the Para Snowboard Classification Rules and Regulations will take precedence. For further questions please contact: parasnowboard@fis-ski.com.  

What is Classification?

In order to safeguard the integrity of fair competition, all Para sports have a system in place which aims to ensure that winning is determined by sporting factors such as skill, fitness, power, endurance, tactical ability and mental focus, the same factors that account for success in sport for able bodied athletes. This system is called Classification.

Through Classification, it is determined which athletes are eligible to compete in a sport and how those athletes are then grouped together for competition, in order to minimise the impact of those athletes’ impairments on sport performance.

Classification is sport-specific because an impairment affects the ability to perform in different sports to a different extent. As a consequence, an athlete may meet the criteria to compete in one sport, but may not meet the criteria in another sport. Having an impairment is thus not sufficient for an athlete to compete in Para sport.

The groupings of athletes by the degree of activity limitation resulting from their impairments are called ‘Sport Classes’. This, to a certain extent, is similar to grouping athletes by age, gender or weight.

Classification across the Paralympic Movement is governed by the IPC Athlete Classification Code and International Standards. More information about IPC Athlete Classification Code can be found here.

Are you interested in finding out more about how Classification works? The IPC have created a free, interactive online course for anyone interested to learn more about the most important features of Paralympic Classification, available here: IPC Classification Fundamentals.

Classification in Para Snowboard

Classification is carried out through a process called Athlete Evaluation. Athlete Evaluation involves the assessment of an Athletes Impairment(s) by a panel of Classifiers. To be eligible to compete in Para Snowboard, Athletes must have an Underlying Health Condition leading to one of the following Eligible Impairment Types:
   • Impaired Muscle Power
   • Limb Deficiency
   • Leg Length Difference
   • Hypertonia
   • Ataxia
   • Athetosis
   • Impaired Passive Range of Movement

If the Athlete has an Eligible Impairment, they must also meet the Minimum Impairment Criteria (MIC), as set out in the Para Snowboard Classification rules and regulations, to ensure that the Athlete's Impairment causes activity limitation. The MIC will be assessed during the Athlete Evaluation. After an Athlete has been designated as Eligible, the Classification Panel will assess which Sport Class the athlete will compete in. 

Sport Classes in Para Snowboard

(Detailed Sport Class profiles are set out in classification rules).

SPORT CLASSES
SB-LL1: Athletes have an impairment in one or both legs.
SB-LL2: Athletes have an impairment in one or both legs.
SB-UL: Athletes have an impairment in one or both arms.


 

Classifier Education

What is a Classifier? 

A Classifier is a person authorised as an official and certified by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) to evaluate Athletes as a member of a Classification Panel. Para Snowboard Classifiers are medical professionals, all of whom have the competencies and qualifications relevant to conduct all, or specific parts, of Athlete Evaluation in accordance with the FIS Para Snowboard Classification Rules and Regulations.

Are you interested in becoming a Classifier? The FIS Para Snowboard Classifier Pathway is available here: Classifier Training and Certification Pathway.

Upcoming Classifier Seminars:

LocationDatesApplicationsInvitation
Campus Sursee, Sursee, Switzerland31 May - 02 June 2024OpenInvitation
    

 

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