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Para-equestrian classification is a system for para-equestrian sport. It is a graded system based on the degree of physical or visual disability and handled at the international level by the FEI.^[1] The sport has eligible classifications for people with physical and vision disabilities.^[1]^[2] Groups of eligible riders include The sport is open to competitors with impaired muscle power, athetosis, impaired passive range of movement, hypertonia, limb deficiency, ataxia, leg length difference, short stature, and vision impairment.^[3]^[4] They are grouped into five different classes to allow fair competition. These classes are Grade I, Grade II, Grade III, Grade IV, and Grade V(Grade Names Changed as of Jan 2017) .^[3] The para-equestrian classification does not consider the gender of the rider, as equestrines compete in mixed gender competitions.^[5]

History of classification

In 1983, classification for cerebral palsy competitors in this sport was done by the Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association (CP-ISRA).^[6] They defined cerebral palsy as a non-progressive brain legion that results in impairment. People with cerebral palsy or non-progressive brain damage were eligible for classification by them. The organisation also dealt with classification for people with similar impairments. For their classification system, people with spina bifida were not eligible unless they had medical evidence of loco-motor dysfunction. People with cerebral palsy and epilepsy were eligible provided the condition did not interfere with their ability to compete. People who had strokes were eligible for classification following medical clearance. Competitors with multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and arthrogryposis were not eligible for classification by CP-ISRA, but were eligible for classification by International Sports Organisation for the Disabled for the Games of Les Autres.^[7]

The CP-ISRA used the classification system designed for field athletics events.^[8] In 1983, there were five cerebral palsy classifications. Class 1 competitors could compete in the Division 1, Class 1 and Class 2 events, while riding with a leader and 2 siderwalkers and/or a backwalker.^[9] In 1990, the Equestrian Australia did not have specific classifications for competitors with disabilities. Acknowledging membership needs though, some rules had organically developed that looked like classifications based on rule modification for different disability types. These included acknowledging one-armed riders were not required to hold the reins in both arms, riders with hearing loss were given visual signals instead of audio signals at the start of and during an event, and blind riders, when they reached a marker, were given an auditory signal.^[10] When the sport was undergoing growth in 1995, a classification system was established in order to provide a level playing field for competitors. The system developed at the time was called "Functional Profile System for Grading" and was largely created by Christine Meaden, who had IPEC classifier status. By 1999, there were four classifications for competitors and 120 accredited equestrian classifiers around the world.^[11] At the New York hosted Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged, para-equestrian competition was broken into hearing and vision impaired classifications, amputee classifications, Les Autres, cerebral palsy and spinal cord disabilities.^[12]

At the 1996 Summer Paralympics, classification was done at the venue because classification assessment required watching a competitor play the sport.^[13] At the 2000 Summer Paralympics, 6 assessments were conducted at the Games. This resulted in 1 class change.^[14] Because of issues in objectively identifying functionality that plagued the post Barcelona Games, the IPC unveiled plans to develop a new classification system in 2003. This classification system went into effect in 2007, and defined ten different disability types that were eligible to participate on the Paralympic level. It required that classification be sport specific, and served two roles. The first was that it determined eligibility to participate in the sport and that it created specific groups of sportspeople who were eligible to participate and in which class. The IPC left it up to International Federations, in this case FEI, to develop their own classification systems within this framework, with the specification that their classification systems use an evidence based approach developed through research.^[4]

The fourth edition of FEI's classification system guide was published in January 2015.^[15]

Going forward, disability sport's major classification body, the International Paralympic Committee, is working on improving classification to be more of an evidence-based system as opposed to a performance-based system so as not to punish elite athletes whose performance makes them appear in a higher class alongside competitors who train less.^[16]

Classification process

The purpose of classification to identify the level of functional disability of a rider, completely independent of their skill level. This is because demonstration of skill is the purpose of competition. Steps are taken before and during the classification process to avoid this. Part of the process involves observing the competitor riding and doing a bench press. For this reason, classifiers do not observe a rider on their horse prior to the bench press to avoid assessing skill at functionality.^[15]

During classification, classifiers look at several things including a rider's mobility, strength and coordination.^[17] This is done during a bench press, during training and in competition.^[18] After riders are classified, they are giving both a classification and a profile. This profile a number 1 to 39 for para-dressage and 1 to 32 for para-driving. This profile impacts what adaptive equipment riders can use.^[15]

Each rider's classification has a status. The available statuses for classification include New, Review, Reviewed Fixe Date - Paralympic Games, and Confirmed. The status of a rider's classification affects their ability to protest their classification.^[15]

Classification governance

Internationally, classification is handled by FEI.^[17] Classification at the national level is handled by different organizations. For example, Australian para-equestrian sport and classification is managed by the national sport federation with support from the Australian Paralympic Committee.^[19] There are three types of classification available for Australian competitors: Provisional, national and international. The first is for club level competitions, the second for state and national competitions, and the third for international competitions.^[20]

Criticism

The classification system in para-equestrian has been criticized by some riders as not fully taking into account disabilities that have fluctuations in a person's regular functional abilities. This criticism specifically related to multiple sclerosis.^[21]

Diagrams

The images below are examples derived from FEI's guide.^[22]

Visualisation of functional vision for a B1 classified competitor
Visualisation of functional vision for a B2 classified competitor
Visualisation of functional vision for a B3 classified competitor

Colour guide for understanding full body diagrams
Disability type for some Grade 1b dressage competitors
Disability type for some Grade 1b dressage competitors
Disability type for some Grade 2 dressage competitors
Disability type for some Grade 3 dressage competitors
Disability type for some Grade 3 dressage competitors
Disability type for some Grade 3 dressage competitors
Disability type for some Grade 3 dressage competitors
Disability type ineligible for FEI governed classification-using competitions
Disability type ineligible for FEI governed classification-using competitions

Para-dressage classification

The Grade 1 (Grade I) para-equestrian classification^[23] is defined by BBC Sport as follows: "Grade 1 incorporates severely disabled riders with Cerebral Palsy, Les Autres and Spinal Cord Injury."^[24] In 2008, BBC Sport defined this classification was "Grade 1: Severely disabled riders with cerebral palsy, les autres and spinal cord injury"^[23] In 2011, the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) defined this classification as: "Riders compete in four mixed disability groups or ‘grades’, with Grade 1 split into two sub-categories (1a and 1b)."^[25] In 2008, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation defined this classification was "GRADE I: These riders are mainly wheelchair users who have poor trunk balance and/or impaired function in all four limbs or good upper limb control but no trunk balance."^[26]

The FEI defines this classification as "Grade I — This is split again into two sections: Grade Ib — At this level the rider will ride walk with some trot work excluding medium trot. Grade Ia — At this level the rider will ride a walk only test."^[27] The Australian Paralympic Committee defined this classification as: "Grade I: Athletes with a physical disability. Riders with poor trunk balance and/or impairment of function in all four limbs or no trunk balance and good upper limb function. Riders generally use a wheelchair in everyday life. Grade 1 is split into 1a and 1b."^[28]

Equipment usage for this class differs based on rider profile. In general, competitors in this grade use a snaffle bit.^[28] Riders may use their voice to guide the horse during competition provided they do so in moderation.^[15]^[29] Riders from this classification may compete at a higher functionality class, but they must declare their intention to do so by end of the year for competitions in the following year.^[29]

Colour guide for understanding diagrams
Disability type for Grade 1b competitors
Disability type for Grade 1b competitors

Grade 1

As of July 2016, the International Paralympic Committee defines Grade 1a on their website as "Athletes in grade 1a have severe impairments affecting all limbs and the trunk. The athlete usually requires the use of a wheelchair in daily life."^[3]

Grade 1a para-dressage riders with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 12a, and 13 are allowed to have a hard hand hold.^[15] Grade 1a para-dressage riders with Profiles 7, 12a, and 13 are allowed to use a connecting rein bar.^[15]

For Australian who tried to qualify for the 2012 Summer Paralympics, they needed to have a percentage of a target score "based on the average overall scores that achieved medals in each grade at the 2010 World Equestrian Games". For Grade 1a classification, the percentage was 71.78%.^[18] Competitors in Grade 1a include Australia's Rob Oakley.^[30]

Grade 2

As of Jan 2017 the International Paralympic Committee defines Grade 2 on their website as "Athletes in grade 2 have either a severe impairment of the trunk and minimal impairment of the upper limbs or moderate impairment of the trunk, upper and lower limbs. Most athletes in this class use a wheelchair in daily life."^[3]

Grade 2 para-dressage riders with Profiles 4, 6, 9, 10a/b, 11a/b, 12b, and 31a/b are allowed to have a hard hand hold.^[15] Grade 2 para-dressage riders with Profile 12b are allowed to use a connecting rein bar.^[15]

Competitors in Grade 2 include Australia's Grace Bowman^[31] and Joann Formosa.^[32] For Australian who tried to qualify for the 2012 Summer Paralympics, they needed to have a percentage of a target score "based on the average overall scores that achieved medals in each grade at the 2010 World Equestrian Games". For Grade 1b classification, the percentage was 71.95% for Grade 1B.^[18]

Grade 3

The Grade 3 (Grade III) para-equestrian classification^[23] is defined by BBC Sport as follows: "Grade 3 incorporates Cerebral Palsy, Les Autres, Spinal Cord injury and Amputee riders with reasonable balance and abdominal control. "^[24] In 2008, BBC Sport defined this classification was "Grade 3: Athletes with reasonable balance and abdominal control including amputees"^[23] In 2008, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation defined this classification was "GRADE III: These riders are mainly wheelchair users or people who have severe movement impairment involving the lower half and with mild to good upper limb function, or severe impairment on one side of the body. " ^[26] Federation Equestre International defines this classification as "At this level the rider will ride a novice level test excluding canter."^[27] The Australian Paralympic Committee defined this classification as: "Grade III: Athletes with a physical disability. Riders with severe locomotor impairment involving the trunk and with mild to good upper limb function, or severe unilateral impairment. Riders generally use a wheelchair in everyday life."^[28] As of July 2016, the International Paralympic Committee defines Grade 3 on their website as "Athletes in grade II have severe impairments in both lower limbs with minimal or no impairment of the trunk or moderate impairment of the upper and lower limbs and trunk. Some athletes in this class may use a wheelchair in daily life."^[3]

Equipment usage for this class differs based on rider profile. In general, competitors in this grade use a snaffle bit.^[28] Riders may use their voice to guide the horse during competition provided they do so in moderation.^[29] Riders from this classification may compete at a higher functionality class, but they must declare their intention to do so by end of the year for competitions in the following year.^[29] Grade 3 para-dressage riders with Profiles 8, 10a/b, 11a/b, 14, 17a, 18a, 27, 31a/b, and 32 are allowed to have a hard hand hold.^[15] Grade 2 para-dressage riders with Profile 14, and 27 are allowed to use a connecting rein bar.^[15]

For Australian who tried to qualify for the 2012 Summer Paralympics, they needed to have a percentage of a target score "based on the average overall scores that achieved medals in each grade at the 2010 World Equestrian Games". For Grade 2 classification, the percentage was 69.7%.^[18]

Colour guide for understanding fully body diagrams
Disability type for some Grade 2 competitors

Grade 4

The Grade 4 (Grade IV) Para-equestrian classification^[23] is defined by BBC Sport as follows: "Grade 4 incorporates Cerebral Palsy, Les Autres, Amputee, Spinal Cord Injury and totally blind athletes with good balance, leg movement and co-ordination."^[24] In 2008, BBC Sport defined this classification was "Grade 4: Athletes with good balance, leg movement and coordination including blind athletes"^[23] In 2011, the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games defined this classification as: "The visually-impaired compete alongside those with a physical disability in Grades 4 and 5 only."^[25] In 2008, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation defined this classification was "GRADE IV: Riders in this section are mainly able to walk without support, with moderate impairment on one side of the body, moderate impairment in all four limbs or severe arm impairment. They may require a wheelchair to cover longer distances. They must have a total loss of vision in both eyes."^[26] Federation Equestre International defines this classification as "At this level the rider will ride a novice level test."^[27] The Australian Paralympic Committee defined this classification as: "Grade IV: Athletes with a physical disability or vision impairment. Riders with moderate unilateral impairment, moderate impairment in four limbs or severe arm impairment. In day to day life, riders are usually ambulant but some may use a wheelchair for longer distances or due to lack of stamina. Riders with a vision impairment who compete in this class have total loss of sight in both eyes (B1)."^[28] As of July 2016, the International Paralympic Committee defines Grade 3 on their website as "Athletes in grade III have a severe impairment or deficiency of both upper limbs or a moderate impairment of all four limbs or short stature. Athletes in grade III are able to walk and generally do not require a wheelchair in daily life. Grade III also includes athletes having a visual impairment equivalent to B1 with very low visual acuity and/ or no light perception."^[3]

Equipment usage for this class differs based on rider profile. In general, competitors in this grade use a snaffle bit or double bridle.^[15]^[28] Riders may not use their voice to guide the horse during competition unless their classifier has specifically allowed for this.^[29] Grade 4 para-dressage riders with Profile 15 are allowed to use a connecting rein bar.^[15]

Riders from this classification may compete at a higher functionality class, but they must declare their intention to do so by end of the year for competitions in the following year.^[29]

Competitors in this classification include Australia's Sharon Jarvis.^[33] For Australian who tried to qualify for the 2012 Summer Paralympics, they needed to have a percentage of a target score "based on the average overall scores that achieved medals in each grade at the 2010 World Equestrian Games". For Grade 4 classification, the percentage was 70.88%.^[18]

Colour guide for understanding diagrams
Disability type for some Grade 3 competitors
Disability type for some Grade 3 competitors
Disability type for some Grade 3 competitors
Disability type for some Grade 3 competitors

Grade 5

Grade 5 (Grade V) Para-equestrian classification^[23] is defined by BBC Sport as follows: "Grade 5 incorporates Cerebral Palsy, Les Autres, Amputee, Spinal Cord injury and Visually Impaired. This last group comprises ambulant athletes with either impaired vision or impaired arm/leg function. "^[24] In 2008, BBC Sport defined this classification was "Grade 5: Ambulant athletes (those able to walk independently) with either impaired vision or impaired arm or leg function"^[23] In 2011, the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games defined this classification as: "The visually-impaired compete alongside those with a physical disability in Grades 4 and 5 only."^[25] In 2008, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation defined this classification was "GRADE V: These riders have impairment in one or two limbs or some degree of visual impairment."^[26] Federation Equestre International defines this classification as "At this level the rider will ride an elementary/medium level test"^[27] The Australian Paralympic Committee defined this classification as: "Grade V: Athletes with a physical disability or vision impairment. Riders have a physical impairment in one or two limbs (for example limb loss or limb deficiency), or some degree of visual impairment (B2)."^[28] As of July 2016, the International Paralympic Committee defines Grade 5 on their website as "Athletes in Grade V have a mild impairment of range of movement or muscle strength or a deficiency of one limb or mild deficiency of two limbs. Grade V also includes athletes with visual impairment equivalent to B2 with a higher visual acuity than visually impaired athletes competing in the Grade IV sport class and/ or a visual field of less than 5 degrees radius."^[3]

Equipment usage for this class differs based on rider profile. In general, competitors in this grade use a snaffle bit or a double bridle.^[28] Riders may not use their voice to guide the horse during competition unless their classifier has specifically allowed for this.^[29] Grade 5 para-dressage riders with Profiles 16, and 24 are allowed to use a connecting rein bar.^[15]

For Australian who tried to qualify for the 2012 Summer Paralympics, they needed to have a percentage of a target score "based on the average overall scores that achieved medals in each grade at the 2010 World Equestrian Games". For Grade 5 classification, the percentage was 69.88%.^[18]

Competitors in this classification include Australia's Hannah Dodd.^[34]

Para-driving classification

Para-driving utilizes a different classification system than para-dressage events.^[15]

Grade I Para Driving

This class is for people who use a wheelchair on a daily basis, and have limited trunk functionality and impairments in their upper limbs. It also includes people who have the ability to walk but have impairments in all of their limbs. The third class of riders it includes is people with severe arm impairments^[15]

This class is allowed to use compensating aids. Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10a, and 12a/b are allowed to use a safety harness held by a groom.^[15] Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12a/b, 13, 14, 21, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to use looped or knotted reins. Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12a/b, 13, 14, 21, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to use a strap on whip.^[15] Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12a/b, 13, 14, 21, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to not use gloves.^[15] Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12a/b, 13, 14, 21, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to have a whip which is held or used by a groom.^[15] Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10a, 12a/b, 13, 14, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to have a brake operated by a groom.^[15] Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10a, 12a/b, 13, 14, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to have a strap on feet or foot trough.

Grade II Para Driving

Grade II is for riders who are higher functioning than Grade I riders but who would otherwise be at disadvantage when competing against able-bodied competitors.^[15]

This class is allowed to use compensating aids. Grade 2 drivers with Profile 8 are allowed to use a safety harness held by a groom.^[15] Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 8, 15, 16, 22, 24, 25, 26b, and 27 are allowed to use looped or knotted reins.^[15] Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 8, 15, 16, 22, 24, 25, 26b, and 27 are allowed to use a strap on whip.^[15] Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 8, 15, 16, 22, 24, 25, 26b, and 27 are allowed to not use gloves.^[15] Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 15, 16, 22, 24, 25, 26b, and 27 are allowed to have a whip which is held or used by a groom.^[15] Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 8, 10b, 11a/b, 15, 17a/b, 18a/b, 19a/b, 25, 26b, 27, and 28 are allowed to have a brake operated by a groom.^[15] Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 8, 10b, 11a/b, 15, 17a/b, 18a/b, 19a/b, 26b, and 27 are allowed to have a strap on feet or foot trough.^[15]

References

^ ^a ^b "Guide to the Paralympic Games – Appendix 1" (PDF). London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. 2011. p. 42. Archived from the original (PDF) on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 9 April 2012.
^ Ian Brittain (4 August 2009). The Paralympic Games Explained. Taylor & Francis. p. 40. ISBN 978-0-415-47658-4. Retrieved 21 August 2012.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g "Equestrian Classification & Categories". www.paralympic.org. Retrieved 2016-07-22.
^ ^a ^b Vanlandewijck, Yves C.; Thompson, Walter R. (2016-06-01). Training and Coaching the Paralympic Athlete. John Wiley & Sons. ISBN 9781119045120.
^ Vanlandewijck, Yves C.; Thompson, Walter R. (2011-07-13). Handbook of Sports Medicine and Science, The Paralympic Athlete. John Wiley & Sons. ISBN 9781444348286.
^ Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association (1983). Classification and sport rules manual (Third ed.). Wolfheze, the Netherlands: CP-ISRA. p. 1. OCLC 220878468.
^ Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association (1983). Classification and sport rules manual (Third ed.). Wolfheze, the Netherlands: CP-ISRA. pp. 7–8. OCLC 220878468.
^ Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association (1983). Classification and sport rules manual (Third ed.). Wolfheze, the Netherlands: CP-ISRA. pp. 4–6. OCLC 220878468.
^ Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association (1983). Classification and sport rules manual (Third ed.). Wolfheze, the Netherlands: CP-ISRA. pp. 13–38. OCLC 220878468.
^ Australian Sports Commission; Australian Confederation of Sports for the Disabled (1990). The development of a policy : Integration Conference 1990 Adelaide, December 3-5, 1990. Willoughby, N.S.W.: Australian Confederation of Sports for the Disabled. OCLC 221061502.
^ Doll-Tepper, Gudrun; Kröner, Michael; Sonnenschein, Werner; International Paralympic Committee, Sport Science Committee (2001). "Development and Growth of Paralympic Equestrian Sport 1995 to 1999". New horizons in sport for athletes with a disability. Vol. 2. Oxford (UK): Meyer & Meyer Sport. pp. 733–741. ISBN 1841260371. OCLC 492107955.
^ Richard B. Birrer; Bernard Griesemer; Mary B. Cataletto (20 August 2002). Pediatric Sports Medicine for Primary Care. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. p. 229. ISBN 978-0-7817-3159-1. Retrieved 21 August 2012.
^ Doll-Tepper, Gudrun; Kröner, Michael; Sonnenschein, Werner; International Paralympic Committee, Sport Science Committee (2001). "Organisation and Administration of the Classification Process for the Paralympics". New Horizons in sport for athletes with a disability : proceedings of the International VISTA '99 Conference, Cologne, Germany, 28 August-1 September 1999. Vol. 1. Oxford (UK): Meyer & Meyer Sport. pp. 379–392. ISBN 1841260363. OCLC 48404898.
^ Cashman, Richard I; Darcy, Simon; University of Technology, Sydney. Australian Centre for Olympic Studies (2008). Benchmark games : the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games. Petersham, N.S.W.: Walla Walla Press in conjunction with the Australian Centre for Olympic Studies University of Technology, Sydney. p. 152.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ ^j ^k ^l ^m ⁿ ^o ^p ^q ^r ^s ^t ^u ^v ^w ^x ^y ^z ^aa ^ab ^ac "PARA-EQUESTRIAN CLASSIFICATION MANUAL, Fourth Edition" (PDF). FEI. January 2015. Archived from the original (PDF) on March 30, 2016. Retrieved July 22, 2016.
^ "Classification History". Bonn, Germany: International Paralympic Committee. Retrieved 30 July 2012.
^ ^a ^b "About Para-Equestrian Dressage". 2012-07-31. Archived from the original on 2014-03-22. Retrieved 2016-07-22.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f "2012 Australian Paralympic Team Nomination Criteria" (PDF). Australia: Equestrian Australia. Archived from the original (PDF) on 17 July 2012. Retrieved 18 June 2012.
^ "Summer Sports". Homebush Bay, New South Wales: Australian Paralympic Committee. 2012. Archived from the original on 15 August 2012. Retrieved 19 August 2012.
^ "What is Classification?". Sydney, Australia: Australian Paralympic Committee. Retrieved 30 July 2012.
^ Nosworthy, Cheryl (2014-08-11). A Geography of Horse-Riding: The Spacing of Affect, Emotion and (Dis)ability Identity through Horse-Human Encounters. Cambridge Scholars Publishing. ISBN 9781443865524.
^ "Rules/2012 Classification manual_FINAL" (PDF). FEI. 12 February 2012. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2 May 2013. Retrieved 22 August 2012.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h "A-Z of Paralympic classification". BBC Sport. 28 August 2008. Retrieved 9 April 2012.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d "Making sense of the categories". BBC Sport. 6 October 2000. Retrieved 9 April 2012.
^ ^a ^b ^c "Guide to the Paralympic Games – Sport by sport guide" (PDF). London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. 2011. p. 32. Archived from the original (PDF) on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 9 April 2012.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d McGarry, Andrew (3 September 2008). "Paralympics categories explained". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved 9 April 2012.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d "Equestrian sports for elite athletes with disabilities worldwide — Classification". FEI (International Federation for Equestrian Sports) PARA-Equestrian Committee. 2012. Archived from the original on 7 August 2012. Retrieved 18 June 2012.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h "Equestrian". Australian Paralympic Committee. 2012. Retrieved 18 June 2012.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g "RULES FOR PARA-EQUESTRIAN, DRESSAGE EVENTS, 3rd edition, effective 1st January 2011, Including modifications for 01.01.2012" (PDF). FEI. 1 January 2012. Retrieved 18 June 2012.
^ "Rob Oakley | APC Corporate". Paralympic.org.au. 1962-04-18. Archived from the original on 2012-07-12. Retrieved 2012-06-18.
^ "Grace Bowman | APC Corporate". Paralympic.org.au. 1990-07-16. Archived from the original on 2012-07-12. Retrieved 2012-06-18.
^ "Joann Formosa | APC Corporate". Paralympic.org.au. 1961-02-19. Archived from the original on 2012-07-12. Retrieved 2012-06-18.
^ "Sharon Jarvis | APC Corporate". Paralympic.org.au. 1978-10-31. Retrieved 2012-06-18.
^ "Hannah Dodd | APC Corporate". Paralympic.org.au. 1992-02-27. Archived from the original on 2012-07-12. Retrieved 2012-06-18.

[london-2012-guide-42-1] "Guide to the Paralympic Games – Appendix 1" (PDF). London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. 2011. p. 42. Archived from the original (PDF) on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 9 April 2012.

[Brittain2009-40-2] Ian Brittain (4 August 2009). The Paralympic Games Explained. Taylor & Francis. p. 40. ISBN 978-0-415-47658-4. Retrieved 21 August 2012.

[:0-3] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g "Equestrian Classification & Categories". www.paralympic.org. Retrieved 2016-07-22.

[:1-4] Vanlandewijck, Yves C.; Thompson, Walter R. (2016-06-01). Training and Coaching the Paralympic Athlete. John Wiley & Sons. ISBN 9781119045120.

[:4-5] Vanlandewijck, Yves C.; Thompson, Walter R. (2011-07-13). Handbook of Sports Medicine and Science, The Paralympic Athlete. John Wiley & Sons. ISBN 9781444348286.

[cpirsa-1-6] Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association (1983). Classification and sport rules manual (Third ed.). Wolfheze, the Netherlands: CP-ISRA. p. 1. OCLC 220878468.

[cpirsa-78-7] Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association (1983). Classification and sport rules manual (Third ed.). Wolfheze, the Netherlands: CP-ISRA. pp. 7–8. OCLC 220878468.

[cpirsa-46-8] Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association (1983). Classification and sport rules manual (Third ed.). Wolfheze, the Netherlands: CP-ISRA. pp. 4–6. OCLC 220878468.

[cpirsa-13-15-9] Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association (1983). Classification and sport rules manual (Third ed.). Wolfheze, the Netherlands: CP-ISRA. pp. 13–38. OCLC 220878468.

[conferencebook-10] Australian Sports Commission; Australian Confederation of Sports for the Disabled (1990). The development of a policy : Integration Conference 1990 Adelaide, December 3-5, 1990. Willoughby, N.S.W.: Australian Confederation of Sports for the Disabled. OCLC 221061502.

[newhorizongs-equestrians-11] Doll-Tepper, Gudrun; Kröner, Michael; Sonnenschein, Werner; International Paralympic Committee, Sport Science Committee (2001). "Development and Growth of Paralympic Equestrian Sport 1995 to 1999". New horizons in sport for athletes with a disability. Vol. 2. Oxford (UK): Meyer & Meyer Sport. pp. 733–741. ISBN 1841260371. OCLC 492107955.

[BirrerGriesemer2002-12] Richard B. Birrer; Bernard Griesemer; Mary B. Cataletto (20 August 2002). Pediatric Sports Medicine for Primary Care. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. p. 229. ISBN 978-0-7817-3159-1. Retrieved 21 August 2012.

[newhorizongs-shooting-13] Doll-Tepper, Gudrun; Kröner, Michael; Sonnenschein, Werner; International Paralympic Committee, Sport Science Committee (2001). "Organisation and Administration of the Classification Process for the Paralympics". New Horizons in sport for athletes with a disability : proceedings of the International VISTA '99 Conference, Cologne, Germany, 28 August-1 September 1999. Vol. 1. Oxford (UK): Meyer & Meyer Sport. pp. 379–392. ISBN 1841260363. OCLC 48404898.

[Games-2000-152-14] Cashman, Richard I; Darcy, Simon; University of Technology, Sydney. Australian Centre for Olympic Studies (2008). Benchmark games : the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games. Petersham, N.S.W.: Walla Walla Press in conjunction with the Australian Centre for Olympic Studies University of Technology, Sydney. p. 152.

[:5-15] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ ^j ^k ^l ^m ⁿ ^o ^p ^q ^r ^s ^t ^u ^v ^w ^x ^y ^z ^aa ^ab ^ac "PARA-EQUESTRIAN CLASSIFICATION MANUAL, Fourth Edition" (PDF). FEI. January 2015. Archived from the original (PDF) on March 30, 2016. Retrieved July 22, 2016.

[ipc-history-16] "Classification History". Bonn, Germany: International Paralympic Committee. Retrieved 30 July 2012.

[:6-17] "About Para-Equestrian Dressage". 2012-07-31. Archived from the original on 2014-03-22. Retrieved 2016-07-22.

[qualifyingapc-18] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f "2012 Australian Paralympic Team Nomination Criteria" (PDF). Australia: Equestrian Australia. Archived from the original (PDF) on 17 July 2012. Retrieved 18 June 2012.

[managaeclass-19] "Summer Sports". Homebush Bay, New South Wales: Australian Paralympic Committee. 2012. Archived from the original on 15 August 2012. Retrieved 19 August 2012.

[apc-class-20] "What is Classification?". Sydney, Australia: Australian Paralympic Committee. Retrieved 30 July 2012.

[21] Nosworthy, Cheryl (2014-08-11). A Geography of Horse-Riding: The Spacing of Affect, Emotion and (Dis)ability Identity through Horse-Human Encounters. Cambridge Scholars Publishing. ISBN 9781443865524.

[fei-22] "Rules/2012 Classification manual_FINAL" (PDF). FEI. 12 February 2012. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2 May 2013. Retrieved 22 August 2012.

[bbc-classifcation-23] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h "A-Z of Paralympic classification". BBC Sport. 28 August 2008. Retrieved 9 April 2012.

[bbc-classification-2000-24] "Making sense of the categories". BBC Sport. 6 October 2000. Retrieved 9 April 2012.

[london-2012-guide-32-25] "Guide to the Paralympic Games – Sport by sport guide" (PDF). London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. 2011. p. 32. Archived from the original (PDF) on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 9 April 2012.

[abc-2008-class-26] McGarry, Andrew (3 September 2008). "Paralympics categories explained". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved 9 April 2012.

[paraquatreainda-27] "Equestrian sports for elite athletes with disabilities worldwide — Classification". FEI (International Federation for Equestrian Sports) PARA-Equestrian Committee. 2012. Archived from the original on 7 August 2012. Retrieved 18 June 2012.

[apcequstrian-28] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h "Equestrian". Australian Paralympic Committee. 2012. Retrieved 18 June 2012.

[rulesforclass-29] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g "RULES FOR PARA-EQUESTRIAN, DRESSAGE EVENTS, 3rd edition, effective 1st January 2011, Including modifications for 01.01.2012" (PDF). FEI. 1 January 2012. Retrieved 18 June 2012.

[roboakley-30] "Rob Oakley | APC Corporate". Paralympic.org.au. 1962-04-18. Archived from the original on 2012-07-12. Retrieved 2012-06-18.

[gracebowman-31] "Grace Bowman | APC Corporate". Paralympic.org.au. 1990-07-16. Archived from the original on 2012-07-12. Retrieved 2012-06-18.

[joannformsoa-32] "Joann Formosa | APC Corporate". Paralympic.org.au. 1961-02-19. Archived from the original on 2012-07-12. Retrieved 2012-06-18.

[sharonjarvis-33] "Sharon Jarvis | APC Corporate". Paralympic.org.au. 1978-10-31. Retrieved 2012-06-18.

[dodd-34] "Hannah Dodd | APC Corporate". Paralympic.org.au. 1992-02-27. Archived from the original on 2012-07-12. Retrieved 2012-06-18.

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+{{Short description|Graded system in para-equestrian sport}}
-'''Para-equestrian classification''' is the classification system for equestrian sport for those with disabilities.  Classification is handled by [[International Equestrian Federation]].  The sport has eligible classifications for people with physical and vision disabilities.
+{{Update|date=August 2021|reason=The FEI has subsequently changed the classification of grading, 1a & 1b have been separated to grade 1 and 2, and every other grade has been moved up (e.g. grade 4 is now grade 5)}}
-==Definition==
-<gallery heights="200px">
+'''Para-equestrian classification''' is a system for para-equestrian sport. It is a graded system based on the degree of physical or visual disability and handled at the international level by the FEI.<ref name="london-2012-guide-42">{{cite web|url = http://www.london2012.com/documents/locog-publications/london-2012-guide-to-the-paralympic-games.pdf|title = Guide to the Paralympic Games&nbsp;– Appendix 1|year = 2011|publisher = London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games|page = 42|access-date = 9 April 2012|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120426013020/http://www.london2012.com/documents/locog-publications/london-2012-guide-to-the-paralympic-games.pdf|archive-date = 26 April 2012}}</ref>  The sport has eligible classifications for people with physical and vision disabilities.<ref name="london-2012-guide-42" /><ref name="Brittain2009-40">{{cite book|url = https://books.google.com/books?id=GjzSxVknv9oC&pg=PA39|title = The Paralympic Games Explained|date = 4 August 2009|publisher = Taylor & Francis|isbn = 978-0-415-47658-4|pages = 40|author = Ian Brittain|access-date = 21 August 2012}}</ref>   Groups of eligible riders include The sport is open to competitors with impaired muscle power, athetosis, impaired passive range of movement, hypertonia, limb deficiency, ataxia, leg length difference, short stature, and vision impairment.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url = https://www.paralympic.org/equestrian/classification|title = Equestrian Classification & Categories|website = www.paralympic.org|access-date = 2016-07-22}}</ref><ref name=":1"/>  They are grouped into five different classes to allow fair competition.  These classes are  Grade I, Grade II, Grade III, Grade IV, and Grade V(Grade Names Changed as of Jan 2017) .<ref name=":0" />  The para-equestrian classification does not consider the gender of the rider, as equestrines compete in mixed gender competitions.<ref name=":4">{{Cite book|url = https://books.google.com/books?id=1pAoIZG3-4cC&q=equestrian&pg=PT125|title = Handbook of Sports Medicine and Science, The Paralympic Athlete|last1 = Vanlandewijck|first1 = Yves C.|last2 = Thompson|first2 = Walter R.|date = 2011-07-13|publisher = John Wiley & Sons|isbn = 9781444348286|language = en}}</ref>
+== History of classification ==
+In 1983, classification for cerebral palsy competitors in this sport was done by the [[Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association]] (CP-ISRA).<ref name="cpirsa-1">{{Cite book|title = Classification and sport rules manual|publisher = CP-ISRA|year = 1983|edition = Third|location = Wolfheze, the Netherlands|page = 1|oclc = 220878468|author = Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association}}</ref>  They defined cerebral palsy as a non-progressive brain legion that results in impairment. People with cerebral palsy or non-progressive brain damage were eligible for classification by them.   The organisation also dealt with classification for people with similar impairments.  For their classification system, people with [[spina bifida]] were not eligible unless they had medical evidence of loco-motor dysfunction. People with cerebral palsy and [[epilepsy]] were eligible provided the condition did not interfere with their ability to compete. People who had strokes were eligible for classification following medical clearance.  Competitors with [[multiple sclerosis]], [[muscular dystrophy]] and [[arthrogryposis]] were not eligible for classification by CP-ISRA, but were eligible for classification by [[International Sports Organisation for the Disabled]] for the [[Games of Les Autres]].<ref name="cpirsa-78">{{Cite book|title = Classification and sport rules manual|publisher = CP-ISRA|year = 1983|edition = Third|location = Wolfheze, the Netherlands|pages = 7–8|oclc = 220878468|author = Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association}}</ref>
+The CP-ISRA used the classification system designed for field athletics events.<ref name="cpirsa-46">{{Cite book|title = Classification and sport rules manual|publisher = CP-ISRA|year = 1983|edition = Third|location = Wolfheze, the Netherlands|pages = 4–6|oclc = 220878468|author = Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association}}</ref> In 1983, there were five cerebral palsy classifications. Class 1 competitors could compete in the Division 1, Class 1 and Class 2 events, while riding with a leader and 2 siderwalkers and/or a backwalker.<ref name="cpirsa-13-15">{{Cite book|title = Classification and sport rules manual|publisher = CP-ISRA|year = 1983|edition = Third|location = Wolfheze, the Netherlands|pages = 13–38|oclc = 220878468|author = Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association}}</ref> In 1990, the [[Equestrian Australia]] did not have specific classifications for competitors with disabilities.  Acknowledging membership needs though, some rules had organically developed that looked like classifications based on rule modification for different disability types.  These included acknowledging one-armed riders were not required to hold the reins in both arms, riders with hearing loss were given visual signals instead of audio signals at the start of and during an event, and blind riders, when they reached a marker, were given an auditory signal.<ref name="conferencebook">{{cite book|title = The development of a policy : Integration Conference 1990 Adelaide, December 3-5, 1990.|publisher = Australian Confederation of Sports for the Disabled|year = 1990|location = Willoughby, N.S.W.|oclc = 221061502|author1 = Australian Sports Commission|author2 = Australian Confederation of Sports for the Disabled}}</ref> When the sport was undergoing growth in 1995, a classification system was established in order to provide a level playing field for competitors.  The system developed at the time was called "Functional Profile System for Grading" and was largely created by [[Christine Meaden]], who had IPEC classifier status.  By 1999, there were four classifications for competitors and 120 accredited equestrian classifiers around the world.<ref name="newhorizongs-equestrians">{{cite book|title = New horizons in sport for athletes with a disability|last2 = Kröner|first2 = Michael|last3 = Sonnenschein|first3 = Werner|publisher = Meyer & Meyer Sport|year = 2001|isbn = 1841260371|volume = 2|location = Oxford (UK)|pages = 733–741|chapter = Development and Growth of Paralympic Equestrian Sport 1995 to 1999|oclc = 492107955|first1 = Gudrun|last1 = Doll-Tepper|author4 = International Paralympic Committee, Sport Science Committee}}</ref> At the New York hosted [[Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged]], para-equestrian competition was broken into hearing and vision impaired classifications, amputee classifications,  Les Autres, cerebral palsy and spinal cord disabilities.<ref name="BirrerGriesemer2002">{{cite book|url = https://books.google.com/books?id=F2RgiYyPXmsC&pg=PA229|title = Pediatric Sports Medicine for Primary Care|date = 20 August 2002|publisher = Lippincott Williams & Wilkins|isbn = 978-0-7817-3159-1|pages = 229|author1 = Richard B. Birrer|author2 = Bernard Griesemer|author3 = Mary B. Cataletto|access-date = 21 August 2012}}</ref>
+At the 1996 Summer Paralympics, classification was done at the venue because classification assessment required watching a competitor play the sport.<ref name="newhorizongs-shooting">{{cite book|title = New Horizons in sport for athletes with a disability : proceedings of the International VISTA '99 Conference, Cologne, Germany, 28 August-1 September 1999|last2 = Kröner|first2 = Michael|last3 = Sonnenschein|first3 = Werner|publisher = Meyer & Meyer Sport|year = 2001|isbn = 1841260363|volume = 1|location = Oxford (UK)|pages = 379–392|chapter = Organisation and Administration of the Classification Process for the Paralympics|oclc = 48404898|first1 = Gudrun|last1 = Doll-Tepper|author4 = International Paralympic Committee, Sport Science Committee}}</ref> At the [[2000 Summer Paralympics]], 6 assessments were conducted at the Games.  This resulted in 1 class change.<ref name="Games-2000-152">{{cite book|title = Benchmark games : the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games|last2 = Darcy|first2 = Simon|publisher = Walla Walla Press in conjunction with the Australian Centre for Olympic Studies University of Technology, Sydney|year = 2008|location = Petersham, N.S.W.|page = 152|first1 = Richard I|last1 = Cashman|author3 = University of Technology, Sydney. Australian Centre for Olympic Studies}}</ref> Because of issues in objectively identifying functionality that plagued the post Barcelona Games, the IPC unveiled plans to develop a new classification system in 2003.  This classification system went into effect in 2007, and defined ten different disability types that were eligible to participate on the Paralympic level. It required that classification be sport specific, and served two roles.  The first was that it determined eligibility to participate in the sport and that it created specific groups of sportspeople who were eligible to participate and in which class.  The IPC left it up to International Federations, in this case [[International Federation for Equestrian Sports|FEI]], to develop their own classification systems within this framework, with the specification that their classification systems use an evidence based approach developed through research.<ref name=":1">{{Cite book|url = https://books.google.com/books?id=9ARIDAAAQBAJ|title = Training and Coaching the Paralympic Athlete|last1 = Vanlandewijck|first1 = Yves C.|last2 = Thompson|first2 = Walter R.|date = 2016-06-01|publisher = John Wiley & Sons|isbn = 9781119045120|language = en}}</ref>
+The fourth edition of FEI's classification system guide was published in  January 2015.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|url = http://www.fei.org/sites/default/files/FEI%20Para%20Equestrian%20Classification%20Manual_January%202015.pdf|title = PARA-EQUESTRIAN CLASSIFICATION MANUAL, Fourth Edition|date = January 2015|website = FEI|access-date = July 22, 2016|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160330091926/http://www.fei.org/sites/default/files/FEI%20Para%20Equestrian%20Classification%20Manual_January%202015.pdf|archive-date = March 30, 2016|url-status = dead|df = mdy-all}}</ref>
+Going forward, disability sport's major classification body, the [[International Paralympic Committee]], is working on improving classification to be more of an evidence-based system as opposed to a performance-based system so as not to punish elite athletes whose performance makes them appear in a higher class alongside competitors who train less.<ref name="ipc-history">{{cite web|url = http://www.paralympic.org/Classification/History|title = Classification History|publisher = International Paralympic Committee|location = Bonn, Germany|access-date = 30 July 2012}}</ref>
+== Classification process ==
+The purpose of classification to identify the level of functional disability of a rider, completely independent of their skill level.  This is because demonstration of skill is the purpose of competition.  Steps are taken before and during the classification process to avoid this.  Part of the process involves observing the competitor riding and doing a bench press.  For this reason, classifiers do not observe a rider on their horse prior to the bench press to avoid assessing skill at functionality.<ref name=":5" />
+During classification, classifiers look at several things including a rider's  mobility, strength and coordination.<ref name=":6" />   This is done during a bench press, during training and in competition.<ref name="qualifyingapc" /> After riders are classified, they are giving both a classification and a profile.  This profile a number 1 to 39 for para-dressage and 1 to 32 for para-driving.  This profile impacts what adaptive equipment riders can use.<ref name=":5" />
+Each rider's classification has a status.  The available statuses for classification include New, Review, Reviewed Fixe Date - Paralympic Games, and Confirmed. The status of a rider's classification affects their ability to protest their classification.<ref name=":5" />
+== Classification governance ==
+Internationally, classification is handled by [[International Federation for Equestrian Sports|FEI]].<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|url = http://www.fei.org/fei/disc/dressage/about-para-equestrian|title = About Para-Equestrian Dressage|date = 2012-07-31|access-date = 2016-07-22|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://archive.today/20140322035046/http://www.fei.org/fei/disc/dressage/about-para-equestrian|archive-date = 2014-03-22}}</ref> Classification at the national level is handled by different organizations.  For example, Australian para-equestrian sport and classification is managed by the national sport federation with support from the [[Australian Paralympic Committee]].<ref name="managaeclass">{{cite web|url = http://www.paralympic.org.au/sports-amp-classification/summer-sports/summer-sports|title = Summer Sports|year = 2012|publisher = Australian Paralympic Committee|location = Homebush Bay, New South Wales|access-date = 19 August 2012|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120815080227/https://www.paralympic.org.au/sports-amp-classification/summer-sports/summer-sports|archive-date = 15 August 2012}}</ref>  There are three types of classification available for Australian competitors: Provisional, national and international.  The first is for club level competitions, the second for state and national competitions, and the third for international competitions.<ref name="apc-class">{{cite web|url = http://www.paralympic.org.au/classification|title = What is Classification?|publisher = Australian Paralympic Committee|location = Sydney, Australia|access-date = 30 July 2012}}</ref>
+== Criticism ==
+The classification system in para-equestrian has been criticized by some riders as not fully taking into account disabilities that have fluctuations in a person's regular functional abilities.  This criticism specifically related to multiple sclerosis.<ref>{{Cite book|url = https://books.google.com/books?id=WOAxBwAAQBAJ|title = A Geography of Horse-Riding: The Spacing of Affect, Emotion and (Dis)ability Identity through Horse-Human Encounters|last = Nosworthy|first = Cheryl|date = 2014-08-11|publisher = Cambridge Scholars Publishing|isbn = 9781443865524|language = en}}</ref>
+== Diagrams ==
+The images below are examples derived from FEI's guide.<ref name="fei">{{cite web|url = http://www.fei.org/sites/default/files/file/DISCIPLINES/DRESSAGE/Rules/2012%20Classification%20manual_FINAL_%2021feb_black%20version.pdf|title = Rules/2012 Classification manual_FINAL|date = 12 February 2012|publisher = FEI|access-date = 22 August 2012|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130502153901/http://fei.org/sites/default/files/file/DISCIPLINES/DRESSAGE/Rules/2012%20Classification%20manual_FINAL_%2021feb_black%20version.pdf|archive-date = 2 May 2013}}</ref><gallery heights="200px">
 File:B1 class.png|Visualisation of functional vision for a [[B1 (classification)|B1 classified]] competitor
 File:B2 class.png|Visualisation of functional vision for a [[B2 (classification)|B2 classified]] competitor
 File:B3 class.png|Visualisation of functional vision for a [[B3 (classification)|B3 classified]] competitor
+</gallery><gallery heights="200px">
+File:Disability guide colours.png|Colour guide for understanding full body diagrams
+File:Profile 14.png|Disability type for some Grade 1b dressage competitors
+File:Profile 15.png|Disability type for some Grade 1b dressage competitors
+File:Profile 14.png|Disability type for some Grade 2 dressage  competitors
+File:Profile 15.png|Disability type for some Grade 3 dressage competitors
+File:Profile 21.png|Disability type for some Grade 3 dressage competitors
+File:Profile 25.png|Disability type for some Grade 3 dressage competitors
+File:Profile 28.png|Disability type for some Grade 3 dressage competitors
+File:Profile 30.png|Disability type ineligible for FEI governed classification-using competitions
+File:Profile 42.png|Disability type ineligible for FEI governed classification-using competitions
+</gallery>
+== Para-dressage classification ==
+The Grade 1 (Grade I)   para-equestrian classification<ref name="bbc-classifcation">{{cite news|url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/disability_sport/7586684.stm|title = A-Z of Paralympic classification|date = 28 August 2008|publisher = BBC Sport|access-date = 9 April 2012}}</ref> is defined by ''[[BBC Sport]]'' as follows:  "Grade 1 incorporates severely disabled riders with Cerebral Palsy, Les Autres and Spinal Cord Injury."<ref name="bbc-classification-2000">{{cite news|url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/olympics2000/paralympics/959701.stm|title = Making sense of the categories|date = 6 October 2000|publisher = BBC Sport|access-date = 9 April 2012}}</ref> In 2008, ''[[BBC Sport]]'' defined this classification was "Grade 1: Severely disabled riders with cerebral palsy, les autres and spinal cord injury"<ref name="bbc-classifcation" /> In 2011, the [[London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games]] (LOCOG) defined this classification as: "Riders compete in four mixed disability groups or ‘grades’, with Grade 1 split into two sub-categories (1a and 1b)."<ref name="london-2012-guide-32">{{cite web|url = http://www.london2012.com/documents/locog-publications/london-2012-guide-to-the-paralympic-games.pdf|title = Guide to the Paralympic Games&nbsp;– Sport by sport guide|year = 2011|publisher = London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games|page = 32|access-date = 9 April 2012|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120426013020/http://www.london2012.com/documents/locog-publications/london-2012-guide-to-the-paralympic-games.pdf|archive-date = 26 April 2012}}</ref> In 2008, the ''[[Australian Broadcasting Corporation]]'' defined this classification was "GRADE I: These riders are mainly wheelchair users who have poor trunk balance and/or impaired function in all four limbs or good upper limb control but no trunk balance."<ref name="abc-2008-class">{{cite web|url = http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/09/03/2354016.htm?site=paralympics/2008|title = Paralympics categories explained|last = McGarry|first = Andrew|date = 3 September 2008|publisher = Australian Broadcasting Corporation|access-date = 9 April 2012}}</ref>
+The FEI defines this classification as "Grade I&nbsp;— This is split again into two sections: Grade Ib&nbsp;— At this level the rider will ride walk with some trot work excluding medium trot. Grade Ia&nbsp;— At this level the rider will ride a walk only test."<ref name="paraquatreainda">{{cite web|url = http://www.ipec-athletes.de/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=25|title = Equestrian sports for elite athletes with disabilities worldwide&nbsp;— Classification|year = 2012|publisher = FEI (International Federation for Equestrian Sports) PARA-Equestrian Committee|access-date = 18 June 2012|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120807073821/http://www.ipec-athletes.de/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=25|archive-date = 7 August 2012|url-status = dead|df = dmy-all}}</ref> The [[Australian Paralympic Committee]] defined this classification as: "Grade I: Athletes with a physical disability. Riders with poor trunk balance and/or impairment of function in all four limbs or no trunk balance and good upper limb function. Riders generally use a wheelchair in everyday life. Grade 1 is split into 1a and 1b."<ref name="apcequstrian">{{cite web|url = http://www.paralympic.org.au/sports/equestrian|title = Equestrian|year = 2012|publisher = Australian Paralympic Committee|access-date = 18 June 2012}}</ref>
+Equipment usage for this class differs based on rider profile.  In general, competitors in this grade use a [[snaffle bit]].<ref name="apcequstrian" />  Riders  may use their voice to guide the horse during competition provided they do so in moderation.<ref name=":5" /><ref name="rulesforclass">{{cite web|url = http://horsesport.org/sites/default/files/file/DISCIPLINES/DRESSAGE/Rules/Para%20Rules_2012_FINAL_clean_30Nov11.pdf|title = RULES FOR PARA-EQUESTRIAN, DRESSAGE EVENTS, 3rd edition, effective 1st January 2011, Including modifications for 01.01.2012|date = 1 January 2012|publisher = FEI|access-date = 18 June 2012}}</ref>  Riders from this classification may compete at a higher functionality class, but they must declare their intention to do so by end of the year for competitions in the following year.<ref name="rulesforclass" /><gallery heights="200px">
+File:Disability guide colours.png|Colour guide for understanding diagrams
+File:Profile 14.png|Disability type for Grade 1b competitors
+File:Profile 15.png|Disability type for Grade 1b competitors
+</gallery>
+=== Grade 1 ===
+As of July 2016, the [[International Paralympic Committee]] defines Grade 1a on their website as "Athletes in grade 1a have severe impairments affecting all limbs and the trunk. The athlete usually requires the use of a wheelchair in daily life."<ref name=":0" />
+Grade 1a para-dressage riders with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 12a, and 13 are allowed to have a hard hand hold.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 1a para-dressage riders with Profiles 7, 12a, and 13 are allowed to use a connecting rein bar.<ref name=":5" />
+For Australian who tried to qualify for the [[2012 Summer Paralympics]], they needed to have a percentage of a target score "based on the average overall scores that achieved medals in each grade at the 2010 World Equestrian Games".  For Grade 1a classification, the percentage was 71.78%.<ref name="qualifyingapc">{{cite web|url = http://www.equestrian.org.au/site/equestrian/national/downloads/2005/high_performance/2012%20London/Selection%20Policies/2012%20Paralympic%20Games%20Nomination%20Criteria%20-%20Equestrian%20Final%20EA.pdf|title = 2012 Australian Paralympic Team Nomination Criteria|publisher = Equestrian Australia|location = Australia|access-date = 18 June 2012|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120717235158/http://www.equestrian.org.au/site/equestrian/national/downloads/2005/high_performance/2012%20London/Selection%20Policies/2012%20Paralympic%20Games%20Nomination%20Criteria%20-%20Equestrian%20Final%20EA.pdf|archive-date = 17 July 2012|url-status = dead}}</ref> Competitors in Grade 1a include Australia's [[Rob Oakley (equestrian)|Rob Oakley]].<ref name="roboakley">{{cite web|url = http://www.paralympic.org.au/team/rob-oakley|title = Rob Oakley &#124; APC Corporate|date = 1962-04-18|publisher = Paralympic.org.au|access-date = 2012-06-18|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120712100202/https://www.paralympic.org.au/team/rob-oakley|archive-date = 2012-07-12}}</ref>
+=== Grade 2 ===
+As of Jan 2017  the [[International Paralympic Committee]] defines Grade 2 on their website as "Athletes in grade 2 have either a severe impairment of the trunk and minimal impairment of the upper limbs or moderate impairment of the trunk, upper and lower limbs. Most athletes in this class use a wheelchair in daily life."<ref name=":0" />
+Grade 2 para-dressage riders with Profiles 4, 6, 9, 10a/b, 11a/b, 12b, and 31a/b are allowed to have a hard hand hold.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 2 para-dressage riders with Profile 12b  are allowed to use a connecting rein bar.<ref name=":5" />
+Competitors in Grade 2 include Australia's  [[Grace Bowman (equestrian)|Grace Bowman]]<ref name="gracebowman">{{cite web|url = http://www.paralympic.org.au/team/grace-bowman|title = Grace Bowman &#124; APC Corporate|date = 1990-07-16|publisher = Paralympic.org.au|access-date = 2012-06-18|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120712082202/http://www.paralympic.org.au/team/grace-bowman|archive-date = 2012-07-12}}</ref> and  [[Joann Formosa]].<ref name="joannformsoa">{{cite web|url = http://www.paralympic.org.au/team/joann-formosa|title = Joann Formosa &#124; APC Corporate|date = 1961-02-19|publisher = Paralympic.org.au|access-date = 2012-06-18|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120712100256/https://www.paralympic.org.au/team/joann-formosa|archive-date = 2012-07-12}}</ref> For Australian who tried to qualify for the [[2012 Summer Paralympics]], they needed to have a percentage of a target score "based on the average overall scores that achieved medals in each grade at the 2010 World Equestrian Games".  For Grade 1b classification, the percentage was 71.95% for Grade 1B.<ref name="qualifyingapc" />
+=== Grade 3 ===
+The Grade 3 (Grade III) para-equestrian classification<ref name="bbc-classifcation" /> is defined by ''[[BBC Sport]]''  as follows: "Grade 3 incorporates Cerebral Palsy, Les Autres, Spinal Cord injury and Amputee riders with reasonable balance and abdominal control. "<ref name="bbc-classification-2000" />  In 2008, ''[[BBC Sport]]'' defined this classification was "Grade 3: Athletes with reasonable balance and abdominal control including amputees"<ref name="bbc-classifcation" />  In 2008, the ''[[Australian Broadcasting Corporation]]'' defined this classification was "GRADE III: These riders are mainly wheelchair users or people who have severe movement impairment involving the lower half and with mild to good upper limb function, or severe impairment on one side of the body. " <ref name="abc-2008-class" /> [[Federation Equestre International]] defines this classification as "At this level the rider will ride a novice level test excluding canter."<ref name="paraquatreainda" /> The [[Australian Paralympic Committee]] defined this classification as: "Grade III: Athletes with a physical disability. Riders with severe locomotor impairment involving the trunk and with mild to good upper limb function, or severe unilateral impairment. Riders generally use a wheelchair in everyday life."<ref name="apcequstrian" />  As of July 2016, the [[International Paralympic Committee]] defines Grade 3 on their website as "Athletes in grade II have severe impairments in both lower limbs with minimal or no impairment of the trunk or moderate impairment of the upper and lower limbs and trunk. Some athletes in this class may use a wheelchair in daily life."<ref name=":0" />
+Equipment usage for this class differs based on rider profile.  In general, competitors in this grade use a [[snaffle bit]].<ref name="apcequstrian" />  Riders  may use their voice to guide the horse during competition provided they do so in moderation.<ref name="rulesforclass" />  Riders from this classification may compete at a higher functionality class, but they must declare their intention to do so by end of the year for competitions in the following year.<ref name="rulesforclass" />   Grade 3 para-dressage riders with Profiles 8, 10a/b, 11a/b, 14, 17a, 18a, 27, 31a/b, and 32 are allowed to have a hard hand hold.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 2 para-dressage riders with Profile 14, and 27  are allowed to use a connecting rein bar.<ref name=":5" />
+For Australian who tried to qualify for the [[2012 Summer Paralympics]], they needed to have a percentage of a target score "based on the average overall scores that achieved medals in each grade at the 2010 World Equestrian Games".  For Grade 2 classification, the percentage was 69.7%.<ref name="qualifyingapc" /><gallery heights="200px">
 File:Disability guide colours.png|Colour guide for understanding fully body diagrams
-File:Profile 14.png|Disability type for some Grade 1b competitors
-File:Profile 15.png|Disability type for some Grade 1b competitors
 File:Profile 14.png|Disability type for some Grade 2 competitors
+</gallery>
+=== Grade 4 ===
+The Grade 4 (Grade IV) Para-equestrian classification<ref name="bbc-classifcation" /> is defined by ''[[BBC Sport]]'' as follows: "Grade 4 incorporates Cerebral Palsy, Les Autres, Amputee, Spinal Cord Injury and totally blind athletes with good balance, leg movement and co-ordination."<ref name="bbc-classification-2000" />  In 2008, ''[[BBC Sport]]'' defined this classification was "Grade 4: Athletes with good balance, leg movement and coordination including blind athletes"<ref name="bbc-classifcation" />  In 2011, the [[London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games]] defined this classification as: "The visually-impaired compete alongside those with a physical disability in Grades 4 and 5 only."<ref name="london-2012-guide-32" /> In 2008, the ''[[Australian Broadcasting Corporation]]'' defined this classification was "GRADE IV: Riders in this section are mainly able to walk without support, with moderate impairment on one side of the body, moderate impairment in all four limbs or severe arm impairment. They may require a wheelchair to cover longer distances. They must have a total loss of vision in both eyes."<ref name="abc-2008-class" /> [[Federation Equestre International]] defines this classification as "At this level the rider will ride a novice level test."<ref name="paraquatreainda" /> The [[Australian Paralympic Committee]] defined this classification as: "Grade IV: Athletes with a physical disability or vision impairment. Riders with moderate unilateral impairment, moderate impairment in four limbs or severe arm impairment. In day to day life, riders are usually ambulant but some may use a wheelchair for longer distances or due to lack of stamina. Riders with a vision impairment who compete in this class have total loss of sight in both eyes (B1)."<ref name="apcequstrian" /> As of July 2016, the [[International Paralympic Committee]] defines Grade 3 on their website as "Athletes in grade III have a severe impairment or deficiency of both upper limbs or a moderate impairment of all four limbs or short stature. Athletes in grade III are able to walk and generally do not require a wheelchair in daily life. Grade III also includes athletes having a visual impairment equivalent to B1 with very low visual acuity and/ or no light perception."<ref name=":0" />
+Equipment usage for this class differs based on rider profile.  In general, competitors in this grade use a [[snaffle bit]] or [[double bridle]].<ref name=":5" /><ref name="apcequstrian" />  Riders may not use their voice to guide the horse during competition unless their classifier has specifically allowed for this.<ref name="rulesforclass" />  Grade 4 para-dressage riders with Profile 15  are allowed to use a connecting rein bar.<ref name=":5" />
+Riders from this classification may compete at a higher functionality class, but they must declare their intention to do so by end of the year for competitions in the following year.<ref name="rulesforclass" />
+Competitors in this classification include Australia's [[Sharon Jarvis]].<ref name="sharonjarvis">{{cite web|url = http://www.paralympic.org.au/team/sharon-jarvis-0|title = Sharon Jarvis &#124; APC Corporate|date = 1978-10-31|publisher = Paralympic.org.au|access-date = 2012-06-18}}</ref> For Australian who tried to qualify for the [[2012 Summer Paralympics]], they needed to have a percentage of a target score "based on the average overall scores that achieved medals in each grade at the 2010 World Equestrian Games".  For Grade 4 classification, the percentage was 70.88%.<ref name="qualifyingapc" /><gallery heights="200px">
+File:Disability guide colours.png|Colour guide for understanding diagrams
 File:Profile 15.png|Disability type for some Grade 3 competitors
 File:Profile 21.png|Disability type for some Grade 3 competitors
@@ Line 15: / Line 97: @@
 </gallery>
-==Governance==
+=== Grade 5 ===
+Grade 5 (Grade V) Para-equestrian classification<ref name="bbc-classifcation" /> is defined by ''[[BBC Sport]]'' as follows: "Grade 5 incorporates Cerebral Palsy, Les Autres, Amputee, Spinal Cord injury and Visually Impaired. This last group comprises ambulant athletes with either impaired vision or impaired arm/leg function. "<ref name="bbc-classification-2000" />  In 2008, ''[[BBC Sport]]'' defined this classification was "Grade 5: Ambulant athletes (those able to walk independently) with either impaired vision or impaired arm or leg function"<ref name="bbc-classifcation" />  In 2011, the [[London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games]] defined this classification as: "The visually-impaired compete alongside those with a physical disability in Grades 4 and 5 only."<ref name="london-2012-guide-32" /> In 2008, the ''[[Australian Broadcasting Corporation]]'' defined this classification was "GRADE V: These riders have impairment in one or two limbs or some degree of visual impairment."<ref name="abc-2008-class" /> [[Federation Equestre International]] defines this classification as "At this level the rider will ride an elementary/medium level test"<ref name="paraquatreainda" /> The [[Australian Paralympic Committee]] defined this classification as: "Grade V: Athletes with a physical disability or vision impairment. Riders have a physical impairment in one or two limbs (for example limb loss or limb deficiency), or some degree of visual impairment (B2)."<ref name="apcequstrian" /> As of July 2016, the [[International Paralympic Committee]] defines Grade 5 on their website as "Athletes in Grade V have a mild impairment of range of movement or muscle strength or a deficiency of one limb or mild deficiency of two limbs. Grade V also includes athletes with visual impairment equivalent to B2 with a higher visual acuity than visually impaired athletes competing in the Grade IV sport class and/ or a visual field of less than 5 degrees radius."<ref name=":0" />
-Classification is handled by [[International Equestrian Federation]] (FEI).<ref name=london-2012-guide-42>{{cite web|url=http://www.london2012.com/documents/locog-publications/london-2012-guide-to-the-paralympic-games.pdf|date=2011|accessdate=9 April 2012|title=Guide to the Paralympic Games&nbsp;– Appendix 1|page=42|publisher=London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games}}</ref><ref name="Brittain2009-40">{{cite book|author=Ian Brittain|title=The Paralympic Games Explained|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=GjzSxVknv9oC&pg=PA39|accessdate=21 August 2012|date=4 August 2009|publisher=Taylor & Francis|isbn=978-0-415-47658-4|pages=40}}</ref>
-==Eligibility==
+Equipment usage for this class differs based on rider profile.  In general, competitors in this grade use a [[snaffle bit]] or a [[double bridle]].<ref name="apcequstrian" />  Riders may not use their voice to guide the horse during competition unless their classifier has specifically allowed for this.<ref name="rulesforclass" />  Grade 5 para-dressage riders with Profiles 16, and 24  are allowed to use a connecting rein bar.<ref name=":5" />
-{{As of|2012}}, people with physical and visual disabilities are eligible to compete in this sport.<ref name=ipcpdf-7>{{cite web|page=7|accessdate=19 August 2012|url=http://www.paralympic.org/sites/default/files/document/120716152047682_ClassificationGuide_1.pdf|publisher=International Paralympic Committee|title=Layman’s Guide to Paralympic Classification|location=Bonn, Germany}}</ref> In 1983, [[Cerebral Palsy International Sports and Recreation Association]] (CP-ISRA) set the eligibility rules for classification for this sport.  They defined cerebral palsy as a non-progressive brain legion that results in impairment. People with cerebral palsy or non-progressive brain damage were eligible for classification by them.   The organisation also dealt with classification for people with similar impairments.  For their classification system, people with [[spina bifida]] were not eligible unless they had medical evidence of loco-motor dysfunction. People with cerebral palsy and [[epilepsy]] were eligible provided the condition did not interfere with their ability to compete. People who had strokes were eligible for classification following medical clearance.  Competitors with [[multiple sclerosis]], [[muscular dystrophy]] and [[arthrogryposis]] were not eligible for classification by CP-ISRA, but were eligible for classification by [[International Sports Organisation for the Disabled]] for the [[Games of Les Autres]].<ref name=cpirsa-78>{{Cite book|pages=7-8|title=Classification and sport rules manual|author=Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association|location=Wolfheze, the Netherlands|publisher=CP-ISRA|date=1983|edition=Third|oclc=220878468}}</ref>
-==History==
+For Australian who tried to qualify for the [[2012 Summer Paralympics]], they needed to have a percentage of a target score "based on the average overall scores that achieved medals in each grade at the 2010 World Equestrian Games".  For Grade 5 classification, the percentage was 69.88%.<ref name="qualifyingapc" />
-In 1983, classification for cerebral palsy competitors in this sport was done by the [[Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association]].<ref name=cpirsa-1>{{Cite book|page=1|title=Classification and sport rules manual|author=Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association|location=Wolfheze, the Netherlands|publisher=CP-ISRA|date=1983|edition=Third|oclc=220878468}}</ref>  The classification used the classification system designed for field athletics events.<ref name=cpirsa-46>{{Cite book|pages=4-6|title=Classification and sport rules manual|author=Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association|location=Wolfheze, the Netherlands|publisher=CP-ISRA|date=1983|edition=Third|oclc=220878468}}</ref> In 1983, there were five cerebral palsy classifications.<ref name=cpirsa-13-38>{{Cite book|pages=13-38|title=Classification and sport rules manual|author=Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association|location=Wolfheze, the Netherlands|publisher=CP-ISRA|date=1983|edition=Third|oclc=220878468}}</ref> Class 1 competitors could compete in the Division 1, Class 1 and Class 2 events, while riding with a leader and 2 siderwalkers and/or a backwalker.<ref name=cpirsa-13-15>{{Cite book|pages=13-38|title=Classification and sport rules manual|author=Cerebral Palsy-International Sports and Recreation Association|location=Wolfheze, the Netherlands|publisher=CP-ISRA|date=1983|edition=Third|oclc=220878468}}</ref> In 1990 in Australia, the [[Equestrian Federation of Australia]] did not have specific classifications for competitors with disabilities.  Acknowledging membership needs though, some rules had organically developed that looked like classifications based on rule modification for different disability types.  These included allowing one armed riders were not required to hold the reins in both arms, riders with hearing loss were given visual signals instead of audio signals at the start of and during an event, and blind riders, when they reached a marker, were given an auditory signal to inform them of this.<ref name=conferencebook>{{cite book|title=The development of a policy : Integration Conference 1990 Adelaide, December 3-5, 1990.|author1=Australian Sports Commission|author2=Australian Confederation of Sports for the Disabled|location=Willoughby, N.S.W.|publisher=Australian Confederation of Sports for the Disabled|date=1990|oclc=221061502}}</ref> In 1999, there were four classifications.  When the sport was undergoing growth in 1995, these were established in order to provide a level playing field for competitors.  The system developed at the time was called "Functional Profile System for Grading" and was largely created by [[Christine Meaden]], who had IPEC classifier status.  By 1999, there were  120 accredited equestrian classifiers around the world.<ref name=newhorizongs-equestrians>{{cite book|title=New horizons in sport for athletes with a disability|volume=2|first1=Gudrun|last1=Doll-Tepper|first2=Michael|last2=Kröner|first3=Werner|last3=Sonnenschein|author4=International Paralympic Committee, Sport Science Committee|location=Oxford (UK)|publisher=Meyer & Meyer Sport|date=2001|isbn=1841260371 |oclc=492107955|chapter=Development and Growth of Paralympic Equestrian Sport 1995 to 1999|pages=733-741}}</ref> At the New York hosted [[Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged]], this sport was played, with the organisers having hearing and vision impaired classifications, amputee classifications,  Les Autres, cerebral palsy and spinal cord disabilities.<ref name="BirrerGriesemer2002">{{cite book|author1=Richard B. Birrer|author2=Bernard Griesemer|author3=Mary B. Cataletto|title=Pediatric Sports Medicine for Primary Care|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=F2RgiYyPXmsC&pg=PA229|accessdate=21 August 2012|date=20 August 2002|publisher=Lippincott Williams & Wilkins|isbn=978-0-7817-3159-1|pages=229}}</ref>
-==Sport==
+Competitors in this classification include Australia's [[Hannah Dodd]].<ref name="dodd">{{cite web|url = http://www.paralympic.org.au/team/hannah-dodd|title = Hannah Dodd &#124; APC Corporate|date = 1992-02-27|publisher = Paralympic.org.au|access-date = 2012-06-18|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120712095313/https://www.paralympic.org.au/team/hannah-dodd|archive-date = 2012-07-12}}</ref>
-Riders with physical disabilities may compete on the same team as people with vision impairment.<ref name="Brittain2009">{{cite book|author=Ian Brittain|title=The Paralympic Games Explained|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=GjzSxVknv9oC&pg=PA97|accessdate=22 August 2012|date=4 August 2009|publisher=Taylor & Francis|isbn=978-0-415-47658-4|pages=97–98}}</ref>
-==Process==
+== Para-driving classification ==
-At the 1996 Summer Paralympics, classification for this sport was done at the venue because classification assessment required watching a competitor play the sport.<ref name=newhorizongs-shooting>{{cite book|title=New Horizons in sport for athletes with a disability : proceedings of the International VISTA '99 Conference, Cologne, Germany, 28 August-1 September 1999|volume=1|first1=Gudrun|last1=Doll-Tepper|first2=Michael|last2=Kröner|first3=Werner|last3=Sonnenschein|author4=International Paralympic Committee, Sport Science Committee|location=Oxford (UK)|publisher=Meyer & Meyer Sport|date=2001|isbn=1841260363 |oclc=48404898|chapter=Organisation and Administration of the Classification Process for the Paralympics|pages=379-392}}</ref> For Australian competitors in this sport, the sport and classification is managed the national sport federation with support from the [[Australian Paralympic Committee]].<ref name=managaeclass>{{cite web|url=http://www.paralympic.org.au/sports-amp-classification/summer-sports/summer-sports|location=Homebush Bay, New South Wales|publisher=Australian Paralympic Committee|title=Summer Sports|accessdate=19 August 2012|date=2012}}</ref>  There are three types of classification available for Australian competitors: Provisional, national and international.  The first is for club level competitions, the second for state and national competitions, and the third for international competitions.<ref name=apc-class>{{cite web|url=http://www.paralympic.org.au/classification |title=What is Classification? |publisher=Australian Paralympic Committee |date= |accessdate=30 July 2012 |location=Sydney, Australia}}</ref>
+Para-driving utilizes a different classification system than para-dressage events.<ref name=":5" />
+=== Grade I Para Driving ===
+This class is for people who use a wheelchair on a daily basis, and have limited trunk functionality and impairments in their upper limbs.  It also includes people who have the ability to walk but have impairments in all of their limbs.  The third class of riders it includes is people with severe arm impairments<ref name=":5" />
+This class is allowed to use compensating aids. Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10a, and 12a/b are allowed to use a safety harness held by a groom.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12a/b, 13, 14, 21, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to use looped or knotted reins. Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12a/b, 13, 14, 21, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to use a strap on whip.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12a/b, 13, 14, 21, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to not use gloves.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12a/b, 13, 14, 21, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to have a whip which is held or used by a groom.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10a, 12a/b, 13, 14, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to have a brake operated by a groom.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 1 drivers with Profiles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10a, 12a/b, 13, 14, 26a, 31a/b and 32 are allowed to have a strap on feet or foot trough.
+=== Grade II Para Driving ===
+Grade II is for riders who are higher functioning than Grade I riders but who would otherwise be at  disadvantage when competing against able-bodied competitors.<ref name=":5" />
+This class is allowed to use compensating aids. Grade 2 drivers with Profile 8 are allowed to use a safety harness held by a groom.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 8, 15, 16,  22, 24, 25, 26b, and 27 are allowed to use looped or knotted reins.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 8, 15, 16,  22, 24, 25, 26b, and 27 are allowed  to use a strap on whip.<ref name=":5" />  Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 8, 15, 16,  22, 24, 25, 26b, and 27 are allowed  to not use gloves.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 15, 16,  22, 24, 25, 26b, and 27 are allowed to have a whip which is held or used by a groom.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 8, 10b, 11a/b, 15, 17a/b, 18a/b, 19a/b, 25, 26b, 27, and 28 are allowed to have a brake operated by a groom.<ref name=":5" /> Grade 2 drivers with Profiles 8, 10b, 11a/b, 15, 17a/b, 18a/b, 19a/b,  26b, and 27 are allowed to have a strap on feet or foot trough.<ref name=":5" />
-==At the Paralympic Games==
+== See also ==
+{{Portal|Sports}}
-Competitors with cerebral palsy classifications were allowed to compete at the Paralympics for the first time at the [[1984 Summer Paralympics]].<ref name=disabilitysport-85>{{cite book|page=85|title=Disability and sport|first1=Karen P|last1=DePauw|first2=Susan J|last2=Gavron|location=Champaign, IL|publisher=Human Kinetics|date=1995|isbn=0873228480|oclc=31710003}}</ref> At the [[1992 Summer Paralympics]], all disability types were eligible to participate, with classification being run through the International Paralympic Committee, with classification being done based on functional disability type.<ref name=disabilitysport-128>{{cite book|page=128|title=Disability and sport|first1=Karen P|last1=DePauw|first2=Susan J|last2=Gavron|location=Champaign, IL|publisher=Human Kinetics|date=1995|isbn=0873228480|oclc=31710003}}</ref> At the [[2000 Summer Paralympics]], 6 assessments were conducted at the Games.  This resulted in 1 class change.<ref name=Games-2000-152>{{cite book|page=152|title=Benchmark games : the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games|first1=Richard I |last1=Cashman|first2=Simon|last2=Darcy|author3=University of Technology, Sydney. Australian Centre for Olympic Studies|location=Petersham, N.S.W.|publisher= Walla Walla Press in conjunction with the Australian Centre for Olympic Studies University of Technology, Sydney|year=2008}}</ref>
+*
-==Future==
+* [[Equestrian at the 1984 Summer Paralympics]]
-Going forward, disability sport's major classification body, the [[International Paralympic Committee]], is working on improving classification to be more of an evidence based system as opposed to a performance based system so as not to punish elite athletes whose performance makes them appear in a higher class alongside competitors who train less.<ref name=ipc-history>{{cite web|accessdate=30 July 2012|url=http://www.paralympic.org/Classification/History|publisher=International Paralympic Committee|location=Bonn, Germany|title=Classification History}}</ref>
+* [[Equestrian at the 1996 Summer Paralympics]]
-==References==
-{{portal|Paralympics}}
+* [[Equestrian at the 2000 Summer Paralympics]]
+* [[Equestrian at the 2004 Summer Paralympics]]
-{{reflist|30em}}
+* [[Equestrian at the 2008 Summer Paralympics]]
+* [[Riding for the Disabled Association]]
+* [[Therapeutic horseback riding]]
+* [[Equestrian at the Summer Paralympics]]
+== References ==
-{{Equestrian classifications}}
-{{Blind sport classifications}}
+{{reflist|30em}}{{Para-equestrian classifications}}{{Blind sport classifications}}{{Disability sports classification}}
-{{Disability sports classification}}
-[[Category:Disability sport classifications]]
+[[Category:Parasports classifications]]
-[[Category:Equestrian sports]]
+[[Category:Para-equestrian|classifications]]

v t e Disability sport classification
Individual Sports	Adaptive rowing Boccia Bowls Disability golf Judo Para-archery Para-athletics Paracanoe Para-cycling Para-equestrian Para-shooting Para-swimming Paratriathlon Powerlifting Racquetball Sailing Table tennis Wheelchair fencing Wheelchair tennis
Team Sports	Football 5-a-side Football 7-a-side Goalball Sitting volley Wheelchair basketball Wheelchair rugby
Winter Sports	Para-alpine skiing Para-nordic skiing Para-snowboarding Sledge hockey Sledge racing Wheelchair curling
Disability types	Amputations Cerebral palsy Intellectual disability Les Autres Wheelchair sport

v t e Blind sports classification
	General B1 B2 B3 B4
	Adaptive rowing LTA-B1 LTA-B2 LTA-B3 LTA4+ Athletics T11 T12 T13 Swimming S11 S12 S13