EXPLANATION
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WHEELCHAIR FENCING
Wheelchair
Fencing competition includes three events: foil, epee and sabre.
Athlete eligibility and classification
Athletes who use
wheelchairs are eligible to compete in wheelchair fencing.
Playing area
In the able-bodied
sport of fencing, two fencers compete on a 14 meters strip. In
wheelchair fencing, fencing is static. The wheelchairs are fixed in
place to the ground by metal frames. The chair is preferably
clamped to both sides of the frame to keep the chair from tipping.
The length of the playing area is decided by the fencer with the
shortest arms. This person decides if the distance will be at his
distance or that of his opponent. One arm/hand holds the fencing
weapon. The other arm is used to hold onto the chair when lunging
and recovering.
Rules
The rules for
wheelchair fencing include the fixed distance between fencers. The
target for foil and sabre competitions is exactly the same as able-bodied
competition. In epée competition, the target is everything above
the waist, with an apron being worn below the waist to aid in
cancellation of these touches. Feet must remain on the footrest and
the fencer must remain seated (no daylight between the fencer's
buttocks and the seat of the chair). The chair must be fixed at a
110 degree angle to the central bar.
The main object is
the same as able-bodied competition. The first fencer to score 15
points (direct elimination) or 5 points (preliminary pool play)
against the opponent wins. A point is awarded each time a
fencer touches the opponent in the target area. Direct elimination
matches consist of three 3-minute periods. Individual and team
events are included in foil and epee for men and women. Sabre
events are limited to men.
The wheelchair is
a primary piece of equipment. It is fixed to a metal frame in the
performing area to maintain stability. The inside rear wheel should
be covered by metal detachable shields. The chair may be cushioned.
The cushion may be the same width as the wheelchair seat and have
minimum height of 5 cm and a maximum height of 10 cm.
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. A glove may be worn and binding should cover 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, epee and sabre.
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