Triathlon is unique in the fact it is a multidisciplinary endurance sport which offers an inclusive opportunity for Para athletes to compete in.
The sport is rare because it is designed to embrace as many athletes as possible, with it allowing able-bodied athletes to compete, side by side, with Para athletes, right from entry level right through to Ironman and Elite.
The inclusion of Para triathlon in the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games has seen the sports rise in popularity and Triathlon New Zealand are committed to helping support opportunities for disabled people at all levels to partake in the sport of Para triathlon.
Individuals wishing to compete in Paratriathlon should speak with an affiliated club or coach for expert advice.
For some detailed information in regards to Paratriathlon in New Zealand please see our Inclusion Information document HERE.
Classification
National Competition:
Athletes that wish to compete in the NZ Paratriathlon Championships must either have a preliminary, national or international classification.
To obtain a preliminary classification an athlete must submit to the Paralympics Classification Manager a completed provisional classification from (completed by their physician), no later than 30 days prior to the event*, so that eligibility can be ratified and the most appropriate class allocated.
Provisional Classification forms can be found on the Paralympics Classification page here. Please note there is one form for physical impairment and one for visual impairment.
*This year we will allow up to 7 days prior to the Suzuki Paratriathlon Championships in November.
International Competition:
For those athletes wishing to compete internationally, they will require an International Classification which is available at many of the World Triathlon events around the world.
These events are posted on the World Triathlon website from November/December.
The Paratriathlon Classification Rules can be found on the World Triathlon website here.
For detailed classification information please see Classification Information section included in this document: Inclusion Information 17. Also refer to the classification categories below.
Wheelchair users. Para athletes must use a recumbent handcycle on the bike course and a racing wheelchair on the run segment. There are two sub-classes, H1 (most impaired) and H2 (least impaired)
Severe impairments. In both bike and run segments, amputee Para athletes may use approved prosthesis or other supportive devices
Significant impairments. In both bike and run segments, the Para athlete may use approved prosthesis or other supportive devices
Moderate impairments. In both bike and run segments, the Para athlete may use approved prosthesis or other supportive devices
Mild Impairments. In both bike and run segments, the Para athlete may use approved prosthesis or other supportive devices;
Total or Partial Visual Impairment (IBSA/IPC defined sub-classes B1, B2, and B3): Includes Para athletes who are totally blind, from no light perception in either eye, to some light perception (B1) and partially sighted Para athletes (B2, B3). One guide is mandatory throughout the race. Must ride a tandem during the bike segment.