Disabled Archery

Many people can participate in archery for fun or competitively, regardless of their disability. Whether they have a physical, sensory or learning difficulty, the sport prides itself on being inclusive for all. There are currently three  classifications for disabled athletes:

OPEN

Athletes may have impairment in the legs and use a wheelchair or have a balance impairment and shoot standing or resting on a stool. Open category athletes may shoot in recurve or compound competitions, under standard rules, and the category is featured at the Paralympic Games.

W1

Athletes may have impairment in the legs and make use of a wheelchair. W1 athletes may shoot either a recurve or compound bow modified from standard rules, do not have separate competitions for the two disciplines, and the category is featured at the Paralympic Games.

VISUALLY IMPAIRED V1, V2/3

Athletes may have impairment in their vision. V1 athletes must wear blindfolds or black-out glasses while competing. V1, V2/3 athletes use tactile sights and are permitted an assistant sitting or standing one metre behind the shooting line to relay information about the position of the arrows in the target, safety and help with scoring. The category is currently not featured at the Paralympic Games.

CLASSIFICATION

Any archer can apply to be classified at the international level through their national governing body. A classification does not necessarily make an athlete eligible to compete in a para archery division, but may make them eligible to compete with an assistive device.

Further information on Disabled archery and Para-Archery can be found on the World Archery Website