This is a basic guide only - for detailed information please contact Paralympics NZ or the Snow Sports NZ Adaptive Manager
IPC Classification
To become a classifier:
National and International clinics are held in New Zealand to gain the IPC Classification qualifications, in association with Paralympics NZ. Classifiers need to have a sound knowledge of the body's movement, sound snow sports skills and a passion for working within the adaptive sport. A current practicing certificate in Physiotherapy or Occupational Therapy is essential.
Classification Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding:
In alpine skiing, there are thirteen classifications for athletes with a physical disability (seven for standing and three for sitting and three for athletes with visual impairments). Paralympic Snowboard currently offers three sport classes: one for athletes with a significant impairment in one or both legs; one for athletes with less severe activity limitation in their lower limbs; and one for athletes with arm impairments. When classifications are combined in alpine skiing competition a formula is used to "factor" athletes' times according to their classification status.
National classification is available annually in New Zealand, with international classification biannually during Winter Games NZ.
Classification Nordic Skiing:
The percentage-system is an adjusted time formula, which is used to determine overall place of each competitor relative to all other disabled racers. This formula assigns a percentage to each competitor based on each individual`s particular disabled race class. The athlete’s actual time is multiplied by this percentage to determine his/her adjusted finishing time. Each disability class has different percentage for the different techniques, classic and free technique. The percentages will be evaluated after every season and changes will be made if necessary. This will be done by the IPNSC. *