Para Athletics
Para athletics encompasses a wide range of track and field events adapted for athletes with various physical, visual, and intellectual impairments. It is one of the largest sports in the Paralympic Games.
Sport History
Explore the evolution of para athletics from its origins to becoming a Paralympic sport.
First International Competition
Para athletics events were included in the Stoke Mandeville Games, the precursor to the Paralympic Games.
Paralympic Debut
Para athletics was included in the first Paralympic Games in Rome.
Classification System
A formal classification system was introduced for para athletics.
ISOD World Championships
The first official World Championships for para athletics were held.
IPC Athletics
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) took direct governance of para athletics as IPC Athletics.
World Para Athletics
IPC Athletics was rebranded as World Para Athletics.
Key Facts
Event Types
Track, field, and road events
Competition Format
Heats, semifinals, and finals
Paralympic Sport Since
1960 Rome Paralympics
Governing Body
International Paralympic Committee (IPC)
Equipment
Para athletics uses specialized equipment adapted to different classifications:
- Racing wheelchairs for track events
- Throwing frames for seated field events
- Prosthetic limbs for amputee athletes
- Tethers for visually impaired runners and their guides