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Wheelchair fencing was one of the foundation sports on the Paralympic program in Rome, Italy, in 1960.
From a spectator’s point of view, its most striking feature is the fact that athletes compete in wheelchairs that are fastened to the floor. However, these chairs allow the fencers freedom of movement and the activity is as fast-paced as in fencing competitions for able-bodied athletes.
Male and female athletes with limb loss or deficiency, paraplegia or cerebral palsy are eligible to compete in individual and team events (with three fencers to a team), including foil, épée and sabre (male athletes only).
Athletes who use wheelchairs are eligible to compete in wheelchair fencing. There are two classes of athletes – Class A is for athletes with full trunk and hand movement, and Class B is for fencers with limitations in trunk balance. For more information, view our Para-fencing Classification Information Sheet (updated Nov 2019).
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.
Fencers who have a significant loss of grip or control of the sword are allowed to attach the sword to their hand using a bandage or similar type of wrapping. A glove may be worn and binding should cover the sleeve opening. Legs must also be well protected by extra thick clothes or an apron.
Athletes compete with the same equipment as able-bodied fencers. Weapons include the foil, épée and sabre.
More information can be found at the links below.
| Year | Gold | Silver | Bronze | total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
