Paralympic Wheelchair Fencing

Sport Summary:

Incorporating individual and team events, fencing competition includes foil, epee and sabre and is open to amputee, cerebral palsy and wheelchair athletes – all athletes must compete from a wheelchair.

The chairs are fastened to the floor, however they allow freedom of movement and the activity is fast-paced and intensely competitive.

Men and women compete in individual and team events.

Paralympic Events being contested at Beijing 2008:

  • Epee
  • Foil
  • Sabre

Rules & Equipment:

Wheelchair:

The wheelchair is a primary piece of equipment. It is fixed to a metal frame in the competition area to maintain stability. The inside rear wheel should be covered by metal detachable shields. The chair may be cushioned.

Weapons:

Weapons include the foil, epée and sabre, which are the same equipment as for able-bodied fencers. Fencers who have a significant loss of grip or control of the sword are allowed to attach the sword into the hand using a bandage or similar type of wrapping.

Clothing:

Fencers must wear protective clothing, including a mask, a jacket a vest and a glove covering the sleeve opening.

For Foil events a protective cover is placed on the wheelchair to prevent hits on the chair from being recorded.

In epée, a metal covering (an "apron") must be placed over the athlete's legs for added protection.

Classification:

Athletes who use wheelchairs are eligible to compete in Wheelchair Fencing.

There are three divisions of competition, with divisions based upon an athlete’s functionality.

Click here for a more detailed explanation of Wheelchair Fencing classification.

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