Athletics

How to PARTICIPATE IN Athletics

Athletics consists of multiple disciplines within the sport and as such has rules for each discipline.

The competition and technical rules are mandated by World Athletics. All other organisations (Little Athletics, Para Athletics and Masters) have modifications to these rules.

Wheelchairs, prosthetic devices, rope tethers for visual impairment or other approved assistance are all considered to be equipment in track and field events, and can all be modified to suit the para-athletics environment.

The sport has an unlimited age-span, and is available to all those who wish to get involved. 

Who can DO PARTICIPATE IN Athletics

Impairment Type

There are a range of disability groups that are eligible to compete in para-athletics. These disability groups are separated into classifications to ensure fair competition. The classification groups are as follows: 

• Hearing Impairment

• Vision Impairment

• Physical Impairment

• Athletes with a transplant, and

• Intellectual Impairment.

Athletes must undergo specific Athlete Evaluation to obtain a classification.

Classification

Each Athlete is classified based on their functional ability, in order to keep a level playing field. In Athletics the sport class consists of a prefix “T” or “F” and a number. The prefix T stands for “Track” and F stands for “Field.” It indicates for which events the sport class applies, either for track or for field events.

The classification groups are as follows:

• Athletes that are Hard of Hear or Deaf: T/F 01

• Athletes with a vision impairment: T/F 11-13

• Athletes with an intellectual impairment: T/F 20

• Athletes with a physical impairment: T/F 31-38, T/F 40-47, T 51-54, F 51-57, T/F 61-64

• Athletes with a Transplant: T/F 60

• Race Running Athletes: RR1, RR2, RR3

How Do I Get Classified?

In order for an athlete to be classified they must first register as a member with their local association. The athlete will then demonstrate the skills and movements required to compete in athletics and these will be assessed by approved classifiers who will determine the most appropriate class.  Other factors including the athlete’s medical history are also taken into account during classification.

Where can you participate?

STATE / TERRITORIES

Resources