Para Fencing National Classification

Last updated: 12th February 2025

What is Classification?

In sport, classification exists so that athletes compete in fair and equal competition. In Paralympic sport, the wide range of impairments creates unique classification systems. Paralympic classification groups athletes according to how their impairment impacts their sport.

For Para Fencing, which is a Paralympic sport, athletes are grouped into Sport Classes which aim to ensure that the impact of their impairment is minimised, and sporting excellence determines which athlete (or team) is ultimately victorious.

Who is eligible for classification?

An athlete who wishes to compete in a sport must have an Eligible Impairment that complies with the relevant Minimum Impairment Criteria for that sport. Different sports have different eligibilities and minimum impairment criteria.

The following Impairment types are relevant for Para Fencing:

• Impaired muscle power
• Athetosis
• Impaired passive range of movement
• Hypertonia
• Limb deficiency
• Ataxia

To count for classification, impairments must meet minimum eligibility criteria under the IPC Classification Code and be measurable, constant, and sport-specific.

The Eligible Impairments and Minimum Impairment Criteria are set down in the BF Para Fencing Classification Rules*. The Minimum Impairment Criteria ensures that an athlete’s Eligible Impairment affects the extent to which an athlete is able to execute the specific tasks and activities fundamental to the sport.

For Para Fencing classification, there are 5 classes , which are currently assigned into three categories for competition: A, B and C. Athletes in category A have the least impact from their impairment type(s) and category C the greatest.

How do I get a National Classification?

Athletes wishing to be entered into a National Classification process are usually expected to have a basic ability to participate in wheelchair fencing (this would be assessed by a registered coach).

Please join one of our Domestic Classification cohorts, which are set to happen three times a year. Cohorts will then be guided through the assessment process with online training and support from our workforce.

Cohort 1 will start in February – Classification occurs at Senior Nationals in April 2025.

Cohort 2 will start in April – Classification will be at the British Open 2025.

Cohort 3 will start in August – Classification to take place around November (event TBC).

To apply to join one of the next available cohorts, please fill out the linked form here: Classification Cohort Application Form

How do I send in medical details safely?

When the time comes to upload your data, which will be at least six (6) weeks prior to the assessment date, please complete a National Classification Request Form (click here to complete online form), uploading all relevant documentation (the online form has the functionality to allow you to attach the files).

Documentation for classification includes the following mandatory forms, which can be downloaded and must also include your own medical supporting evidence:

• Athlete Medical Diagnostic Form (click here to download form)
• Athlete Classification Consent Form (click here to download form)
• Supporting medical evidence.

The Athlete Medical Diagnostic form must be completed and signed by your physician or other medical personnel. This must be typed for clarity, in English, and not hand written.

Any supporting evidence or documentation that supports your diagnosis and/or impairment, including the effects of your impairment (as instructed on the form), must also be submitted.

The Athlete Classification Consent Form must be signed by the athlete. If the athlete is under 18 years of age, this must also be signed by their parent or guardian.

Once your documentation has been received by British Fencing, you will be contacted to inform you of your classification assessment date, or if necessary, to request any further information that might be required.

What does the Classification Process entail?

The National Classification process involves an athlete undergoing an athlete classification assessment.

The assessment is performed by British Fencing Classifiers and has two parts: a physical assessment and observation in competition. An athlete without any classification must be classified prior to competing in any competition where a sports class is requested.

Classification assessments may be undertaken the day prior to a British Fencing domestic competition or at other publicised events.

For detailed information on the Classification rules and assessment, please read the GBR Para Fencing classification Rules*.

*Please Note:  GBR Para Fencing athlete assessments and allocation of sports class and sports status, comply with World Para Fencing Classification Rules. For an interim period, until the GBR Para Fencing classification rules are published, the World Para Fencing rules will be used. https://parafencing.org/about/rules-and-documents/