Classification Discussed in Bonn

On 20 September, the IPC Classification Committee came together and addressed the IPC Classification Code, its impact on the Committee and its mandate, as well as the different manuals and guides related to Classification.

The next day, members of the Classification Code Working Group joined the meeting to discuss the final stages of the IPC Classification Code, which recently has been approved by the IPC Governing Board. The group mainly focused on the Code implementation strategy and the education and awareness that goes along with it.

From 22 to 23 September, about 25 Heads of Classification of various Paralympic sports gathered in Bonn and received first hand information on the IPC Classification Code. They further discussed the strength and challenges of the Code with respect to the different sports and reinforced the need for research in regards to classification. In addition, representatives of the Beijing 2008 and London 2012 Organizing Committee presented on Classification during the Games, Games Services for Officials and the Classification Guide.

Said Peter Van de Vliet, IPC Medical and Scientific Director, after the meeting: “The Code will be the reference document for classification within the Paralympic Movement. I think we have been successful in transferring the positive, constructive energy from the Classification Code Working Group to all Heads of Classification. I want to extend my appreciation to all those who contributed to the process, especially to the Classification Code Working Group, the Classification Committee, Heads of Classification and Classifiers for their hard work, commitment and feedback.”

In regards to Paralympic Games operations, it was agreed during the meeting, that Chief Classifiers, appointed for Beijing, will meet with the Technical Delegates of the respective sports to align the operational procedures for the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games in March 2008.